Atlanta

As the Director of Tutor Services, Tom has been with Applerouth since 2011, specializing in Economics, Business, and mentoring athletes. A standout scholar, Tom graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BS in Economics and Finance from the University of South Alabama and earned an MBA from the University of Rochester. After a successful career in finance, he transitioned to education, earning multiple teaching certifications from the University of Georgia and spending over 13 years teaching high school. Tom sums up his tutoring philosophy simply and decisively: “Take a two-pronged approach: master the material and master the test.”  When not tutoring, Tom enjoys fishing, cruising in his red Camaro, and cherishing time with his family.

“I wanted to reach out to say thank you for tutoring my daughter. She raved about you from Day One. Her excitement when she received her ACT scores was tremendous. We are so proud of her and beyond impressed by how much you helped her in only a few sessions. I have recommended Applerouth to many of my friends (we used the tutoring service for her older brothers as well) but I will definitely be recommending you specifically! You have true talent.”

With degrees in Art Marketing and Art Education from Georgia universities, Shara-Sue joined Applerouth in 2014, bringing eight years of experience teaching Special Education, Math, and Visual Art at the middle and high school levels. As a Senior Tutor Manager, her lively, adaptive, and energetic style empowers students to build confidence and conquer test anxiety to be fully prepared for test day. Known for her dedication and willingness to go the extra mile for students and families, Shara-Sue creates a supportive and engaging learning environment. When not tutoring, Shara-Sue enjoys creating art, traveling, and exploring Atlanta’s vibrant cultural scene.

"Shara-Sue is the most incredible tutor! We are so appreciative of Applerouth for matching us with her. We are thrilled with the help and leadership she has provided to our daughters, who adore her. She is truly wonderful."

A triple-major graduate of Emory University in Religion, History, and Art, John holds an MA in Religious Studies and an MAT in Teaching with a focus on Social Studies. Since joining Applerouth in 2009, John has become a sought-after Executive Functioning coach and a stand-out tutor, known for helping students build systems for success and think like test writers. He explains, “The difference between a high score and a perfect score is the difference between thinking like a test-taker and a test-writer.” As Applerouth’s Director of Training, John develops programs and trains educators nationwide on using Appleruth’s curriculum and methods. Outside of work, he enjoys writing comics, studying pedagogy, and spending time with his family.

“My son received his ACT scores today and finally got that 35! He did especially well in English, the section he focused on most with you. Thanks again for all of your time and expertise with the test prep. We’ll be sending our other son your way in a few years!”

Lynda joined Applerouth in 2016, bringing over 20 years of experience as a Montessori high school math and science teacher. With a BS in Biology and a PhD in Biophysical Chemistry from Georgia State University, Lynda combines deep expertise with a patient, reassuring approach. She describes her tutoring style as student-centered and adaptive: "I excel when I work one-on-one, adjusting to each student's learning style." Inspired by her children, Lynda left science research to pursue teaching. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, yoga, drawing, and gardening, and as an ordained Zen Buddhist monk, she values balance and inspiration in her life.

“Lynda, I just wanted to reach out and share what an impact you are having on my daughter’s academic success this semester. She is getting a ‘super A’ in AP Pre-Calculus and feels confident about her upcoming SAT test.”

Matt joined Applerouth in 2011 and quickly became a key curriculum designer, developing numerous lessons and practice tests, while serving as the primary author of the SSAT and writing guides. With a BA from UC Santa Barbara and an MA from Emory University, where he taught for nearly a decade, Matt’s creative teaching style helps students build strong academic foundations. He is praised by many families for his engaging approach, good sense of humor, and proven success. Outside of work, Matt enjoys watching movies, making music, and cooking.

“My daughter got her test scores this morning and we are on Cloud 9! She got her best scores in both R/W and Math for a 1530 total. Matt, I am certain her ability to understand the test and to have confidence in her own abilities is a direct reflection on her time spent tutoring with you.”

Passionate about teaching, Brooke joined Applerouth in 2015 while continuing to teach science in the public school system. With a Master’s in Instructional Technology from Kennesaw State University, she combines her expertise in science education with a talent for simplifying test strategies and amplifying each student’s strengths. Known for her innovative approach to standardized test prep, Brooke sums up her philosophy: "Work smarter, not harder." When not tutoring or teaching, she enjoys cooking, traveling, and cheering on the Patriots.

"After just a few private sessions with Brooke, my daughter increased her ACT score by 2 points. Brooke is professional, flexible, and eager to help—an excellent experience all around. I would recommend Brooke to anyone looking to strengthen their test-taking skills."

A National Merit Finalist, Tal earned his B.S. from the University of Illinois and his J.D. from Emory University’s School of Law. After practicing law, he found his true passion in education and joined Applerouth in 2013. Known for his sharp intellect and methodical approach, Tal inspires confidence and mastery in his students. He describes his tutoring style as individualized, saying, "I like to get to know a student to determine their learning style, goals, and personality. Based on that, I can be laid-back, no-nonsense, or a combination of both. I challenge all my students to set high goals and emphasize the importance of practice and effort." Outside of tutoring, Tal enjoys chess, languages, and music.

“Your expertise, patience, and commitment to going above and beyond have had an incredible impact on our daughter’s confidence and preparedness for this important test. Your influence will extend far beyond this test, as you have empowered her with skills that will serve her well in future academic pursuits. Your contributions to her educational journey will forever be appreciated and remembered.” 

Bess has been with Applerouth since 2013, working with students from diverse backgrounds. She holds a BA from William & Mary and an MFA from George Washington University. With an infectious love of learning, Bess inspires students to take ownership of their academic journey, encouraging them to ask, "What can we get curious about?" By tailoring her approach to each student’s unique learning style, Bess challenges them to set ambitious goals and stay engaged in every step of the test preparation process—from mastering content to refining strategy. When she’s not tutoring, you’ll find her reading Shakespeare or exploring mixed martial arts.

"Bess’s individualized tutoring and ongoing encouragement gave our daughter the ability to attack the test with confidence! Bess understood and explained the areas where our daughter could study to improve, and shared the tips and tricks for that extra boost when the answer wasn’t clear. We highly recommend Bess and the private tutoring at Applerooth to any family looking to support their student in achieving a higher score on the SAT!"