Education
B.A. in English Education and K–6 Teaching Certificate and middle school
math teaching endorsement from the University of Colorado.
Experience
Over 14 years of teaching in Colorado public elementary and middle
schools, and more than 10 years of tutoring middle school math, as well as elementary math and reading at iLearn Academy.
About
I am passionate about helping students build confidence and competence in
math. I believe no one is inherently “bad at math” – with the right guidance and a growth mindset, every student has the potential to succeed and thrive in math.
Fun Fact
In 2009, my husband, Martin Anderson, and I co-founded iLearn Academy.
It’s been a joy to serve the North Shore community ever since, supporting students’ academic growth alongside a team of talented and dedicated teachers. I enjoy taking long walks with our dog while listening to audiobooks. I also love traveling, learning about different cultures, and cooking healthy meals.

Youngah Anderson

Director | Elementary/Middle School Math Teacher

Muhammad S. Afzal

Math/Science Teacher | ACT/SAT Coordinator

Subjects Taught
Algebra, Geometry, Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, Trigonometry, AP
Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Statistics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, AP Physics C, AP Computer Science, Test Prep (ACT/SAT/PreACT/SAT), Science Fair (ISR and IJAS), AP Computer Science
Education
Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics from the University of Illinois, Chicago
Experience
I have 9+ years of experience tutoring and teaching students from grade 6 to college, in various settings including schools, homes, online platforms, and libraries. 
About
As a Math and Science teacher, I focus on expanding students' knowledge beyond what is normally taught in classes and achieving a true understanding of relevant topics. Rote memorization is only a means to get a good grade; it is by actively learning the lessons that students can use their knowledge to benefit them in future courses and careers. On that note, I prefer the phrase "working smart" over "working hard."
Fun Fact
I am an avid reader of fiction novels across all genres, with my favorite book
being Eragon by Christopher Paolini.

Subjects Taught
Middle and High School English Language Arts, English
Standardized Testing (PSAT/SAT, Pre-ACT/ACT, MAP, etc.)
Education
B.A. in Individualized Study, New York University; currently studying
Teaching of English at the University of Illinois, Chicago
Experience
3+ years working with middle-to-high school-aged students
About
I believe every student has the capacity to exceed expectations by finding
authentic enjoyment in studying literature. Whether students are applying for their dream school, trying to catch up in class, or have a personal project they need guidance with, I always look forward to the opportunity to ensure their success.
Fun Fact
I enjoy memorizing poetry for fun, I'm currently working on the
Iliad!

Burhan Hussain

English/History Teacher,  ACT/SAT Instructor 

---

Dylan Chern

Math & Science Teacher,  ACT/SAT Instructor

Subjects Taught
Math, Physics, Chemistry, ACT Math, ACT Science
Education
B.A. in Physics from Grinnell College
Experience
A couple of years as a summer camp counselor working with kids and
young adults, about 1 year of tutoring experience
About
I care a lot about math making sense to students. I enjoy taking the time to
explain why something in math works the way it does and I find that it helps some students better remember the content later on. It can help them make better sense of the material later if they get confused.
Fun Fact
​I enjoy playing tennis, biking, and reading DC Comics.

Subjects Taught
I have taught all subjects in grades K-5, emphasizing ELA/Social Studies in grades 6-8.
Education
I have a BS in Early Childhood Education, a BS in Elementary Education,
an endorsement in ELL, and an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction. All degrees are from National-Louis University.
Experience
I have 20 years of teaching experience in private and public schools.
Philosophy: As an ELA teacher with 20 years of experience and a parent of four, education is a lifelong journey rooted in curiosity, empathy, and critical thinking. My classroom is a space where students learn to use language as a tool for expression, connection, and empowerment. I strive to foster a love of reading and writing by valuing diverse voices and encouraging students to find and refine their own. Teaching, for me, is both a calling and a partnership—shaped by experience, guided by compassion, and driven by a commitment to helping every learner grow.
Fun Fact
​I love watching football and spending time with friends and family.

Heather Kolaski

 Elementary/Middle School Language Arts Teacher