Hi, I’m Renée. A teacher, tutor, and the heart behind RENewed Minds Academic Tutoring.

I bring 25 years of experience teaching in mainstream high school classrooms, primarily as an English teacher, before transitioning into Special Education and a community-based classroom supporting neurodiverse students. Over the years, I’ve worked with countless students who are capable and bright, yet feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to manage the demands of school.

Today, I teach in a community classroom supporting neurodiverse students who are partially integrated into mainstream classes and completing work experience placements in the community. This role has deepened my understanding of how important it is for students to feel supported, understood, and connected—not just academically, but emotionally as well.

Through RENewed Minds, I provide academic tutoring that is compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming, and practical. I support students with:

• Understanding assignments and expectations

• Breaking work into manageable steps

• Organization and time management

• Task initiation and follow-through

• Study skills and exam preparation

While I offer subject-based tutoring (with a strong background in English and literacy), I also focus on the learning skills and executive functioning strategies that help students feel more confident and independent over time.

I’m deeply passionate about mental wellness and believe that children learn best when they feel calm, safe, and supported. My tutoring style is patient, encouraging, and relationship-based. I take the time to get to know each student and meet them where they are—academically and emotionally—because growth happens when students feel seen and valued.

Outside of my work, I love spending time with my three children and our pets, curling up with a good book, and travelling with my spouse whenever we get the chance. Being both an educator and a parent has shaped how I support families—with empathy, understanding, and a realistic view of the challenges students face today.

I work primarily with students in Grades 6–12, as well as post-secondary students as needed, and offer in-person (where feasible) and virtual tutoring across Durham and York Region. Availability includes evenings, weekends, and summer months.

If your child is feeling overwhelmed or needs extra support navigating school, I would be honoured to be part of their learning journey.