Award-Winning Special Education Tutors
serving Philadelphia, PA
Special Education
Tutors in Philadelphia
Private 1-on-1 tutoring, weekly live classes for academic support, test prep & enrichment, practice tests and diagnostics, and more to elevate grades and test scores.
Based on 3.4M Learner Ratings
UniversitiesSchools & Universities
DeliveredHours Delivered
ProficiencyGrowth in Proficiency
Who needs tutoring?
No obligation. Takes ~1 minute.

Every learner processes information differently, and Howe adapts pacing, materials, and communication style to match each student's needs rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all approach. Whether the focus is reading comprehension, written expression, or building organizational skills, Howe breaks tasks into manageable steps and adjusts in real time based on what's clicking. That patience and flexibility show up in a consistent 34 ACT-level command of the academic content itself.

Years of experience working one-on-one with students who have ADHD and other learning differences taught Jillian that the right approach matters more than the right answer. She adapts pacing, breaks concepts into smaller chunks, and uses multiple modes — visual diagrams, verbal walkthroughs, hands-on practice — to match how each student learns best. Her background spans math and life sciences, so she can support students across several core subjects.
A PhD in neuroscience means Elliot understands learning differences at the biological level — how attention, working memory, and processing speed vary across brains and what that means for instruction. He explicitly welcomes learners on the spectrum and tailors pacing, scaffolding, and sensory considerations to each student rather than defaulting to one-size-fits-all methods. His 5.0 rating speaks to that individualized care.
Every learner processes information differently, and Kate's years in the classroom have sharpened her ability to adapt explanations on the fly — whether that means using visual organizers for a student with ADHD or scaffolding a reading passage into smaller chunks for someone with a processing difference. She builds lessons around each student's strengths rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all approach.
Clinical psychology training fundamentally changes how you understand a struggling learner — Danny's PhD work gives him insight into the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral dimensions that shape how students with learning differences engage with academic material. He draws on formal counseling psychology methods to identify what's actually getting in the way, then adapts instruction accordingly, whether the barrier is processing speed, attention, anxiety around schoolwork, or something else entirely. Rated 5.0 by families.
Rosemary's graduate work in occupational therapy included extensive training in adaptive learning strategies, sensory processing, and task analysis — the clinical side of what special education looks like in practice. She volunteers regularly with the Down syndrome community, giving her hands-on experience tailoring instruction to different cognitive and developmental profiles. That combination means she doesn't just know accommodations exist; she knows how to implement them in real learning moments.
Annie's graduate training in counseling psychology gave her direct experience with IEPs, learning accommodations, and the cognitive frameworks behind conditions like dyslexia, ADHD, and processing disorders. She adapts lesson pacing, breaks tasks into smaller chunks, and uses multi-sensory techniques tailored to each learner's profile — not a one-size-fits-all script.
Every learner processes information differently, and Zoe's experience in special education means she knows how to identify what's getting in the way — whether it's working memory, processing speed, or difficulty with executive function — and adjust her teaching accordingly. She creates multi-sensory lessons and scaffolded tasks that let students build confidence at their own pace. Her anthropology training also gives her a deep respect for different ways of knowing, which shapes how she approaches every session.
Alice's Child and Family Studies minor and education certification program trained her in differentiated instruction and individualized learning plans — skills she's applied across elementary, middle, and high school settings. She adapts pacing, materials, and communication style to each learner's needs, whether that means using graphic organizers to scaffold writing or breaking multi-step math problems into concrete, manageable pieces.
I am an Educator with 22 years of experience working with students of all ages, ability levels, and subject areas. I received my Masters of Education from Slippery Rock and my Bachelors of Art in Sociology with a focus on Secondary Teaching from Geneva College. I've taught in a variety of academic settings; private, public, alternative education, and online. Subjects taught include; Social Studies, Reading, English Language Arts, Math, Science, Biology, AP Psychology, Health, and Study Skills. I hold a Level II Pennsylvania Teaching Certification in the following areas: Special Education N-12, Social Studies, Mid-Level Math, and English. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about English, Writing, Biology, Social Studies and Social Sciences. When working with students, whether in the classroom or in tutoring sessions, my mission is to assist them in reaching their maximum potential by using research based and innovative teaching methods. I aim to promote success and accomplishment for all students and look forward to working with you!
Students with learning differences often need material broken into smaller, more deliberate steps — especially in reading and writing. Paige uses phonics-based decoding, structured sentence-building exercises, and adaptive reading strategies to meet each learner's pace without skipping the foundational skills they need.
Liz holds a master's in Special Education (Mild to Moderate Disabilities, grades 5–12) from Simmons College and has worked extensively with students who have learning disabilities, ADHD, dyslexia, and emotional impairments. That clinical training, paired with her hands-on experience teaching and directing tutors at a charter school in Boston, means she knows how to adapt instruction on the fly — whether that's restructuring a math lesson for a student with dyscalculia or building reading fluency strategies for a student with dyslexia. She designs individualized approaches grounded in each student's IEP goals and actual learning profile.
Grant has spent two decades working successfully with students across a wide range of learning differences, from processing disorders to ADHD to math-specific anxiety. His approach strips away the shame many students carry — he slows down, re-explains using different models, and builds lessons around how each individual learner actually thinks rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all method.
During her year as a teaching assistant in a first-grade classroom, Molly worked directly with students with special needs, adapting lessons and tracking individual progress toward IEP goals. Her dual major in elementary and special education gives her formal training in differentiated instruction, multisensory learning strategies, and behavior support frameworks. She understands how to modify materials so that a student can access the same content their peers are learning, just through a different pathway.
Victoria spent three years as a certified classroom teacher through Teach for America, working with first through third graders who had a wide range of learning needs, including IEP-supported students. She adapts lessons to different processing styles and paces, breaking academic content into structured, manageable steps that build genuine understanding rather than frustration.
I am able to create quality, yet comprehensive curriculum for my students that will thrust them to succeed. I am very detailed oriented, creative, and have a passion for ensuring student success. It is my endeavor to combine my range of experience with my wealth of education. This includes being a loving, motivating, supporting, fun, and integral educator who will make a positive contribution to each student. I want to help all students build confidence, which will enhance their self esteem as well as personal values. Reaching this objective will directly reflect in the progression of their academic success.
Theresa adapts her teaching pace, format, and explanations to match how each learner actually processes information, whether that means visual organizers for reading comprehension or step-by-step scaffolding in math. Her range across subjects — from writing to algebra to study skills — means she can meet a student's needs without constantly switching tutors.
Rachel holds a B.S. in Special Education, which means she doesn't just know the content — she knows how to adapt it. Whether a student needs modified pacing for reading comprehension, visual supports for math concepts, or alternative assessment strategies, she designs sessions around how each learner actually processes information. Her background spans both general and special education classrooms, so she's comfortable navigating IEP goals alongside grade-level standards.
I am a teacher who is certified in all core subjects for grades 4 through 8, Special Education, and English as a Second Language. I am eager for the opportunity to tutor you or your student, because I feel that small group instruction is the single best tool in increasing understanding. I love lesson design and as your tutor, I will be sure to work with you to create lessons that you find both engaging and effective.
Co-teaching in NYC public schools means Rhiannon designs lessons daily for classrooms where IEPs, 504 plans, and diverse learning profiles are the norm — not the exception. She breaks down academic content into scaffolded steps, builds in sensory and processing accommodations, and adjusts pacing based on how each student actually learns. That real-world experience with differentiated instruction translates directly into one-on-one sessions where modifications aren't an afterthought.
I am a graduate of UC San Diego with a Bachelors in Neuroscience through the Psychology department. After graduating, I went to Michigan Technological University and did some graduate work, before moving to Texas to be closer to my parents. I did my alternative certification program through Texas Teachers and am highly qualified to teach Science for grades 7-12. I have been a teacher in public and charter schools for the last four years, and have tutoring experience extending over ten years behind me as well.
Lena's daily experience as a middle school teacher means she's practiced at adapting lessons on the fly when a student needs a different entry point into material. She breaks tasks into smaller, clearly sequenced steps and uses patient repetition and multi-sensory techniques to reinforce skills in reading, writing, and math. Her approach prioritizes building confidence alongside academic progress.
Earning her Master's in Elementary Inclusive Education and Special Education at Columbia's Teachers College, Olivia is trained to differentiate instruction across learning profiles — whether a student has an IEP, a 504 plan, or simply learns differently than the standard classroom assumes. She breaks down academic content using multisensory techniques and scaffolded steps, connecting each lesson to the student's strengths rather than defaulting to one-size-fits-all methods.
Testimonials
Because the right Special Education tutor makes all the difference.
Average Session Rating – Based on 3.4M Learner Ratings
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Frequently Asked Questions
Special education tutoring is personalized instruction designed to support students with learning disabilities, developmental delays, or other individualized education program (IEP) needs. Unlike general tutoring, special education tutoring focuses on implementing evidence-based strategies tailored to each student's specific learning profile, working closely with IEP goals and accommodations. Tutors in this field understand how to break down complex concepts, use multi-sensory approaches, and build confidence in students who may struggle with traditional classroom instruction.
Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who understand IEP requirements and can reinforce the goals outlined in your child's individualized education program. During an initial consultation, tutors review your child's IEP, identify key skill areas, and design instruction that complements what's happening in the classroom while addressing specific learning objectives. This coordinated approach helps ensure tutoring directly supports your child's progress toward measurable IEP outcomes.
Students receiving special education services often struggle with reading fluency, math computation, executive functioning skills, or processing information at the pace of classroom instruction. Personalized tutoring addresses these challenges by using targeted interventions, allowing students to learn at their own pace, and building foundational skills with repetition and immediate feedback. Research on 1-on-1 instruction shows it can significantly accelerate learning for students who need more individualized support than a classroom environment can provide.
The first session typically involves an assessment of your child's current skill level, learning style, and specific areas of need. Tutors will ask about your child's strengths, challenges, IEP accommodations, and what you hope to achieve through tutoring. This information helps tutors develop a personalized plan and establish a comfortable rapport with your student, setting the foundation for effective instruction in subsequent sessions.
Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who have expertise in special education, learning disabilities, and evidence-based intervention strategies. Many hold special education certifications, have experience working with students on IEPs, or specialize in specific areas like dyslexia, dyscalculia, or autism spectrum support. All tutors are vetted to ensure they understand how to adapt instruction and create an inclusive learning environment for students with diverse needs.
Progress is tracked through regular assessments, skill demonstrations, and progress toward IEP goals. Tutors typically document improvements in specific areas like reading comprehension, math fluency, or organizational skills, and share updates with you regularly. Many families also see progress reflected in classroom grades, increased confidence, and improved participation—all important indicators that personalized instruction is making a meaningful difference.
Philadelphia's 91 school districts and 422 schools each have different special education programs and support structures. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors familiar with Philadelphia's educational landscape who can complement your child's school-based services and help bridge any gaps in support. Whether your child attends a district school or charter school, tutors can align their instruction with your child's specific school's curriculum and IEP implementation.
Contact Varsity Tutors to discuss your child's specific needs, learning profile, and goals. We'll match you with a tutor who has expertise in your child's areas of need and understands how to work with students receiving special education services. From there, you'll have an initial session to establish a personalized plan, and tutoring can begin on a schedule that works for your family.
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