About - OPEN EDvantage

Who We Are

UNIQUE TUTORING APPROACH

At OPEN EDvantage, our mission is to empower students to achieve their academic and personal goals. We provide personalized tutoring services for middle school, high school, and college students, utilizing an innovative approach that balances homework, sports, extracurricular activities, and stress management. We recognize that every student is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet the needs of each individual. We believe in the power of education to transform lives, and we are dedicated to helping students find success and reducing stress for families.

We understand the pressure that students and families face, and we are committed to helping you navigate this challenging landscape. That’s why we work closely with each student to assess their individual needs, and create a customized plan for success. Our tutors specialize in a wide range of areas, including specific subject support, executive functioning, self-advocacy, organization, planning, college counseling, college essays, ADD/ADHD, IEPs, 504s, and navigating the school system.

At OPEN EDvantage, we are committed to providing comprehensive support for students of all ages, including incoming high schoolers. That’s why we offer a range of unique services to help them navigate the transition to 9th grade and beyond. During the summer, we host in-person High School Preparation Workshops. These workshops are specifically designed to help incoming high school students get a head start on the upcoming academic year and are led by experienced educators.

At OPEN EDvantage, we believe that every student has the potential to succeed, and we’re dedicated to providing the resources and support they need to reach their goals. If you’re an incoming high school student looking to get ahead, or if you know someone who is, our High School Preparation Workshops are an excellent opportunity to start the academic year with confidence and a competitive edge.

Tutoring OPEN EDvantage

Schedule Your Free Consultation!

O.P.E.N. IS AN ACRONYM FOR THE STEPS WE TAKE IN EVERY SESSION: ORGANIZE, PRIORITIZE, EDUCATE, NAVIGATE

STEP #1
ORGANIZE
A keystone of student success is strong organization skills. Tutors analyze school portals with students, identify missing assignments, and create plans for upcoming deadlines.
STEP #2
PRIORITIZE
After identifying missing assignments and deadlines, together they determine the overall picture to decide which assignments are most important in boosting student grades.

STEP #2
STEP #3
EDUCATE
Tutors help students master challenging concepts that build confidence going into tests and finals. Students learn study skills, executive functioning skills, and self advocacy skills.
STEP #4
NAVIGATE
We guide students with the ins and outs of the school system. Answer questions about IEPs, 504s, college recruiting, course selection, and college admissions.

STEP #4

“OPEN EDvantage Tutors’ perspective as a teacher gave me insights into how to succeed in high school. Organization and study techniques are so important. I benefited during my freshman and sophomore years from her class.”

StudentHigh School Sophomore

“My daughter had a very successful and positive freshman year because she felt prepared for high school. She learned that organization is the key to success in high school. Note-taking techniques were helpful and OPEN EDvantage Tutors shared several websites that students can use to find information quickly when writing essays or studying for tests.”

ParentEast Bay

“I feel like the session is really going to help me feel prepared for high school this year!”

Student8th Grade

Meet the Team

At OPEN EDvantage, we are proud to have Michelle and Amanda on our team, two highly qualified educators who possess a wealth of academic knowledge and a proven track record of success in tutoring. Both bring to the table, a breadth of experience and expertise that allows us to provide comprehensive support to our students, who are looking to achieve their academic and personal goals. We work closely with parents, to advocate for their children and guide them through the complexities of the educational system. We pride ourselves in providing a holistic approach to education and ensuring our students are set up for success

Michelle Alessandria

Experienced Educator, Tutor, and College Advisor

With over 30 years of teaching and advising experience, Michelle Alessandria is passionate about providing students and families with personalized academic and college planning support. Holding a Master’s Degree in Education and teaching credentials in Multiple Subjects (K-12), English, History, and Special Education, Michelle has guided students across diverse learning needs and academic levels. Her expertise spans classroom teaching, teacher training at St. Mary’s College, and comprehensive college advising through advanced coursework at UCLA.

Michelle’s approach is holistic and student-centered, combining academic tutoring with tailored college application guidance to help students discover and achieve their educational goals. As a parent of two successful UCLA graduates, she understands firsthand the complexities of today’s academic journey. A member of IECA, HECA, and WACAC, Michelle stays current with admissions trends, providing expert, compassionate support that empowers students to navigate academics and the college admissions process with confidence.

Amanda Alessandria

Tutor, Mentor, and College Advisor

Amanda Alessandria is a dedicated tutor and college advisor with a passion for empowering students to achieve their academic and personal goals. A UCLA graduate with a BA in Political Science and Academic Honors, Amanda brings firsthand experience balancing academics and athletics as a former collegiate rower. Her unique perspective allows her to support students in managing their busy schedules while staying focused on success.

With years of experience tutoring high school and college students, Amanda specializes in providing personalized academic support and guidance through the college admissions process. She leverages her technological expertise to create interactive, engaging sessions that cater to each student’s learning style.

As a member of the Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA), Amanda stays informed on admissions trends and best practices. Her commitment to professional development through college tours and conferences ensures her students receive up-to-date, insightful advice, helping them make informed decisions and reach their full potential.

Veronica Pandelopoulos

Tutor, Mentor, and Essay Specialist

With a background in education that blended liberal arts and practical sciences, Veronica is passionate about a holistic approach to learning and skilled at fostering meaningful relationships with students. In the classroom, she excelled at meeting students where they are, guiding them to achieve their goals, and supporting diverse learning needs. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes inclusivity, adaptability, and cultivating confidence through a curriculum that resonates with all learners.

Now transitioning from classroom teaching to tutoring, Veronica is dedicated to understanding each student’s unique needs, empowering them academically and personally, and inspiring them to reach their fullest potential. Her approach is grounded in kindness, respect, and joy in the learning journey.

We do not succeed unless our students succeed!

SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION!

Subscribe and get all the latest news!