Meet Rebecca!

Rebecca is a bright and bubbly Sunshiner from Pennsylvania whose passion for helping children grow shines in every session! With her outgoing personality, creative energy, and genuine care for each child she works with, Rebecca brings encouragement and joy to every student’s learning journey.

Join our conversation with Rebecca below:

Hi Rebecca! Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Ever since I was a little girl, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. I’ve always had a big heart for children—and while I only have two of my own, I see all the students I work with as part of my extended family.

I’ve been in education since I was 19, and joined The Sunshine Method in May of last year. I’m a mom to two wonderful kids—my 23-year-old son who is autistic, and my 5-year-old daughter—and I’ve been married for 14 years. When I’m not tutoring, I love spending time with my family, doing art projects like painting or clay work, and reading. In fact, I read about 3–4 books for myself each week—plus the ones I read with my students!

What subjects do you enjoy teaching the most?

My favorites are ELA and reading. I love helping my students build reading comprehension skills, especially my older ones who read chapter books with me. I even wrote a book two years ago (still waiting for publication!) and I’m working on another now. Storytelling and language have always been my passion.

Is there a tutoring experience you’ve had that has stood out to you?

Honestly, every experience has meant something to me. But one story I’ll never forget is a former student I supported as a paraprofessional—he had no confidence and constantly told me he couldn’t do the work. I always encouraged him: “Let’s sit down and work through it together.” Fast forward—he’s now playing for Penn State and is expected to be drafted into the NFL this year. They say he’s the next Saquon Barkley. Knowing I played a small role in helping him believe in himself means everything.

What role do you believe education plays in a child’s life?

Education shapes who we are. It teaches us through trial and error, and helps us grow emotionally and intellectually. I think one of the most important lessons I teach is that it’s okay to make mistakes—what matters is that you keep trying.


What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten as an educator?

Don’t go in full-force with a student. Start by building a relationship. Get to know how they learn, what they enjoy, and what they need most—not just academically, but emotionally too. We’re not just tutors; we’re mentors,
supporters, and safe spaces for them to be themselves.

How do you keep your students engaged during lessons?

I get creative! I make themed activities—like Valentine’s Bingo—and even send care packages every couple of months (with parent permission, of course). Stickers, pencils, handwritten notes—it really boosts their motivation. We also do dance or yoga breaks to shake things up, and I love when the parents join in too!

What advice would you give to other tutors?

The advice I’d give to tutors coming on is to get to know the kids. Don't get upset if they aren't doing what you want, learning and education takes time. They aren’t going to one day wake up with the lightbulb on, and suddenly know how to do it, it takes time, and you have to be patient and kind.

What would you say to a child who is struggling academically or lacking confidence?

I recently had a student tell me she hated school while crying through her lesson. I reminded her: “I’m here for you, not just to teach, but to talk.” At the end of the lesson, she was much more calm and confident with herself and doing her work. Sometimes kids are struggling with more than academics—maybe they’re being bullied or feeling overwhelmed. I always try to bring in kindness, encouragement, and perspective.


And finally, what do you hope for your students’ futures?

I want my students to achieve their goals, and grow every day. I want them to be living a life where, down the road, they won't need a tutor anymore. That they will be that confident with themselves to stand independently.