Meet Our Team
Jessica Pomerantz- Founder & Lead Educational Consultant
Jessica Pomerantz is a magna cum laude graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and French. With years of experience teaching in schools and tutoring privately, Jessica has guided countless students through academic growth and the college admissions process. She founded Planting the Ivy in 2005 and continues to build strong, lasting relationships with her students, helping them achieve both scholastic success and personal confidence.
Philosophy: “I believe every student has unique strengths, and my role is to help them discover and showcase their potential to achieve their goals.”
Our Tutors
Our tutors are carefully selected instructors from top-tier colleges and universities, dedicated to helping students achieve academic success. Each brings expertise, experience, and a personalized approach to ensure every student reaches their potential.
Galia – Math Tutor
Galia holds a B.S. in Mathematics and Technology and an M.S. in Physics Education. She is pursuing a Ph.D. in Mathematical Studies and has over 15 years of experience tutoring SAT and ACT math. Galia has taught Algebra, Geometry, Precalculus, AP Calculus, and Modern Math concepts at the secondary and college levels, helping students achieve strong results while building resilience and confidence in math.
Michele – SAT, ACT & AP Specialist
Michele is an expert in the SAT, ACT, AP US & World History, AP English, and AP Spanish. Using a Socratic approach, she engages students fully, helping them actively read, annotate, and practice strategies to succeed on test day.
Angela – English/SAT Verbal Tutor
Angela specializes in SAT English and the college essay. She is a certified teacher in Connecticut and an adjunct professor at Central Connecticut State University. With a patient and supportive approach, she encourages students to be active learners, build confidence, and strengthen their reading and writing skills.
Maria – Math Tutor
Maria holds an Ed.D. in Education is a licensed educator and counselor. She has over 20 years of experience as a teacher, principal, and consultant, and currently teaches math at the Community College of Vermont. Maria tutors students of all ages in math, test preparation, and executive functioning.
Sarah – English & AP Tutor
Sarah is a certified teacher specializing in AP tutoring, English, Social Studies, and the college essay. She holds bachelor’s degrees in English and Education and a Master’s in Education. Sarah helps students build confidence and achieve their highest potential.
Carolina – Spanish Tutor
A native Spanish speaker with over 20 years of teaching experience, Carolina brings Spanish to life through cultural immersion. She inspires curiosity and confidence while helping students connect language learning to cultural understanding and global opportunities.
Justin – Academic & Creative Tutor
Justin graduated Summa Cum Laude from Rutgers University with a B.A. in Anthropology and a Minor in Creative Writing for Film. He has conducted research in archeology and primatology and produced documentary films. Justin brings his diverse experience to teaching, helping students develop both academic skills and creative thinking.