Reach Out

Building True Understanding,
Not Just Better Grades.

K-12 academic tutoring and music lessons for families in Soldotna and Kenai, with the patience to find an approach that works for your child.

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12+

years teaching

1:1

always personal

10+

subjects taught

Joanna on a driftwood beach near Soldotna, ringed by a constellation naming the subjects she teaches
Why we're different

We build lessons around how your child actually learns.

All subjects,
K–12

Math, reading, English, history, science, and more. We tutor across the board and tailor every session to what your child actually needs.

We explain the why,
not just the how

Memorization is a component of education, but what sticks is true understanding. We focus on wholistic education

Connection
before lessons

We meet first. Answer any and all questions. Then collaboratively decide the best process forward.

Real academic
depth

Through extensive study in both humanities and sciences, combined with practical experience, we deliver authentic expertise across all courses.

What we teach

One-on-one instruction built around how each student learns best.

Academic tutoring for K through 12

Math, reading, English, history, science. Every subject, every grade.

Music lessons for beginners and beyond

Piano, guitar, voice, and wind instruments. No pressure, just progress.

A young student plays a keyboard while her music teacher guides her hands

Ready to learn more?

We have openings this summer, and our fall schedule is filling up. Reach out now to see what fits.

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What parents are saying

Families in Soldotna and Kenai trust us to help their children understand what they’re learning.

Rated 5 out of 5
AT
Alice T.

Parent of 15 year old

My teen was struggling to understand middle school math concepts and was feeling very defeated. Joanna is so positive and encouraging and naturally enthusiastic about teaching math that my teen now looks forward to math! Joanna takes the time to explain things thoroughly and is really good at adapting her approach in the moment if a child isn’t understanding something. She is able to see how a kid is struggling and teach from where they are and by the time they are done the problem they have such a sense of accomplishment. It’s a rare thing to find a teacher gifted in this way. She also has been able to spot gaps in my child’s math knowledge and provide support and teaching to fill in those gaps. I would definitely recommend Joanna to anyone looking for a math boost or a complete revamping of their math approach, she’s been a life saver! There’s no more fighting about math at our house!

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Rated 5 out of 5
J
Jordan

16 year old student

All the years I been doing math it’s always been so difficult for me, but just a year ago I found the greatest math tutor and she totally change my whole way of thinking with math, it’s become way easier for me, Joanna help teach and explain everything at my own pace so I can understand easier she’s been a awesome teacher for me! and I appreciate everything she’s thought me!

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Rated 5 out of 5
LS
Laura S.

Parent of 14 year old

My teen was struggling to understand middle school math concepts and was feeling very defeated. Joanna is so positive and encouraging and naturally enthusiastic about teaching math that my teen now looks forward to math! Joanna takes the time to explain things thoroughly and is really good at adapting her approach in the moment if a child isn’t understanding something. She is able to see how a kid is struggling and teach from where they are and by the time they are done the problem they have such a sense of accomplishment. It’s a rare thing to find a teacher gifted in this way. She also has been able to spot gaps in my child’s math knowledge and provide support and teaching to fill in those gaps. I would definitely recommend Joanna to anyone looking for a math boost or a complete revamping of their math approach, she’s been a life saver! There’s no more fighting about math at our house!

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Joanna teaches because learning should matter

Joanna, founder of NorthStar Education, smiling in a wood-panelled room

I started NorthStar Education in 2024 with a simple belief: while memorization is a component of learning, without understanding, there is no progress. My education spans philosophy, theology, history, English, psychology, biology, and music. I’ve lived abroad, studied widely, and worked with students from everywhere. In July 2026, I’m starting a Master’s program because this work demands constant growth.

What I bring

Patience, breadth of knowledge, and genuine attentiveness with all kinds of learners.

How I work

We meet for coffee first. You ask questions. I answer honestly. Then we decide the next steps together.

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Let's Chat

Tell me about your child, what they’re working on, and how we can help them thrive.

Email:

[email protected]

Phone:

(907) 252-0668

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