"Come Study With Me"
ABOUT THE
FOUNDER & OWNER
Stephanie Puntillo is the Founder & Owner of Steph's Study Stars. Stephanie is a graduate from York University, a Kindergarten Teacher, a Children's Dance Teacher, and a Confidence Building Workshop Creator. Stephanie decided to go back to the basics of learning and created our current Pre-K-Kindergarten & Primary Curriculum which includes our Homeschool Program that has been proven to teach each child the fundamental learning expectations that surround the Pre-K-Kindergarten & Primary level. She has been working with children of all ages for over a decade and is passionate about making each child's learning experience positive and enjoyable.
Stephanie was recently published in City Life & Dolce Magazine. The article describes who she is and why she began her company 4 years ago. ​​
Our mission is to help each student feel supported, guided and build CONFIDENCE in their abilities throughout their educational journey. ​Every student has their own unique story and Steph's Study Stars is here to help each child master their own milestones.
​“Come Study with Me”
Our Team
Steph's Study Stars hands pick each individual Tutor who is committed, motivated and dedicated to working with children of all ages. Our Tutors are University Graduates, have CPR-C certification, a valid Vulnerable Sector Check and have been working with children for over 5 years. See below our incredible SSS TEAM!
Paula Zachcial
Lead Tutor & Administrator​​
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About Me
Hi my name is Paula Zachcial. I am currently a Lead Tutor and Administrator for Steph’s Study Stars, being part of the team since 2021. Throughout my time, I have helped various students excel in their learning, been part of the lesson plan process and assisted workshop events. I am currently pursuing my Masters of Health Science at the University of Toronto. I am extremely passionate about helping people achieve their goals, creating personal learning strategies and teaching. Outside of work, I love travelling, being active, and dancing.
Ms. Julia Grutta
Part-Time Tutor
Pre-K-Intermediate
About Me
Hello, my name is Julia! Besides being a passionate learner and teacher, I enjoy travelling, going to the beach, spending time with my family and dog named Charlie and lastly, reading books!
I have a background in Early Childhood Education. I am also a recent graduate from Niagara University where I graduated with my Bachelor in Professional Studies in Teacher Education. I got hired with the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB) over a year ago now and I have had so many wonderful opportunities. From the classroom, to the library, these experiences have really shaped who I am as an educator and lifelong learner!
Michael Low
Part-Time Tutor
Elementary-High School
Mathematics & Science
About Me
Hello, I'm Michael Low, a Microbiology Major for the University of Guelph. Over the past 8 years, I've worked as a production technologist and immunochemistry analyst in pharmaceutical manufacturing. I'm passionate about science and math and aim to guide students to achieve their academic goals and excel in real-world careers. I also have a love for music which has driven me to master subjects in music theory and advanced music production. Fun Fact: I still have one of my baby teeth!
Ms. Cindi Silverman
Full-Time
Homeschool Teacher
About Me
Hi my name is Cindi Silverman. I am currently the Homeschool Teacher for Steph's Study Stars. I have my Bachelors of Education from McGill University. I have been tutoring and working with children of all ages for over 25 years. I enjoy watching the success and growth of each of my students and feel all children have the ability to reach their full potential. I have worked with children of all ages and learning abilities. I target my learning instructions and methods to the unique needs and learning styles of each student. My hobbies include diamond painting. puzzles, reading, hiking and spending time with my son. I am excited to begin our learning journey together.
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Ms. Kayla Blackwood
Part-Time Tutor
Specializing in Behaviour Therapy & Special Needs
About Me
Hi, my name is Kayla Blackwood. I am a Behaviour Therapist and Special Needs Educator. I specialize in developmental disorders in children, adolescence and adults. I am passionate about helping individuals achieve their goals, building confidence and becoming self sufficient. Lastly, a fun fact about myself is, I love animals and self care.”
Teadora Gojovic
Part-Time Tutor
Elementary-High School
French
About Me
Hello! My name is Teodora, I am currently a double major of French studies and Psychology with a very hopeful goal to pursue a bachelor of education. I am primarily interested in the intersection of psychology and education to figure out how to make our brains love learning! I have worked with children in all sorts of environments from private tutoring to summer camp. I believe there is nothing you can't learn to do and consequently, I spend my days off doing one of millions of hobbies! I look forward to being part of the Steph Study Stars team !
Sarah Morrone
Homeschool Teacher & Part-Time Tutor
About Me
My name is Sarah Morrone and I am happy to be one of the Homeschool and Tutors with Steph’s Study Stars because I deeply align with the values of learning being unique and tailored to every child. My educational background is in Early Learning as I hold a Bachelors of Arts and am a Registered Early Childhood Educator. I have experience working with children spanning ages 0-16 but have a knack for working within early years of learning as I have experience in early learning centers, non-profit organizations, and daycares. Here, I recognized the need for more individualized and holistic learning which is why I created my own business focused on in-home care at the family and child level. It is here I began tutoring and understanding the needs of children beyond the classroom and incorporating unique learning models/ fostering a sense of connection and encouragement where I saw learning blossom. Furthering my understanding of human development, I am currently studying towards my Master of Counselling Psychology with the hopes to bridge my knowledge of early experiences, learning, and mental health. A fun fact about me is I love nature the outdoors and am trying to visit as many national parks in the world as I can!
Ms. Sophia Della Casa
Part-Time Tutor
Pre-K-Intermediate
About Me
My name is Sophia Della Casa and I’m entering my fourth year at the University of Toronto, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Biology for Health Science and Psychology. I am delighted to be joining the team of amazing tutors at Steph’s Study Stars, and contributing to supporting kids build confidence in their learning. I have been tutoring, mentoring, and caring for children for many years, and can’t wait to help make a positive impact on supporting kids through their learning journey! In my free time, I love cooking, being active, and playing the ukulele.
Kimberly Tran
Part-Time Tutor
Pre-K-Intermediate
English & Writing
About Me
My name is Kimberly and I’m currently an Educational Studies student at York University, with hopes of becoming a future educator. I have experience caring for children in after school programs and community centre settings. I’m especially interested in all things English/Writing related and I hope to make it an enjoyable experience for others as well! I look forward to supporting and creating positive experiences for children’s learning at Steph’s Study Stars! Fun fact: I love watching Shakespearean plays!
Harmeet Mander
Part-Time Tutor
Pre-K-Intermediate
About Me
Hello, my name is Harmeet Mander. I am currently in my last year of the Early Childhood Studies program at the University of Guelph-Humber. My ambition is to become an elementary school teacher and a certified play therapist. I am looking forward to being a part of the Steph’s Study Tutors. I love helping children learn and grow. I am excited to support and inspire students to learn new concepts every day. I have worked with children for many years through my university placements. For example, in a Montessori setting with senior kindergarten children and a day school for children with exceptionalities. In these settings, I have implemented lots of fun activities and lessons. With my experience, I am eager to help students become successful young individuals. Fun fact: I am a small business owner making handmade jewelry. I also love to bake and explore new places.