Hi, I'm Sarah Fraser.
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A little more than 13 years ago, I realized my students were suffering a crisis of confidence. They felt frustrated, confused, and unsure of their capabilities as students. From bright slackers, disorganized geniuses, and over-committed extracurriculars through to under-the-radar achievers, students from Sidwell Friends, Basis DC, Kent School, Sandy Spring Friends, and Emerson Prep's grades and standardized test scores weren't reflecting their efforts.
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When I asked about when, where, why and how they studied, nearly every one of them said they re-read their notes. Pushed a little more, they re-read their notes while on Instagram. Or Facebook. Or Twitch, or with a game running in the background. Mostly the night before the test.
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They felt discouraged, perplexed and disappointed in themselves. And I realized all the education research I'd knitted together over the years was a curriculum: a scientifically-supported, experienced-enhanced, step-by-step skill set and schedule for how to learn.
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Given the means and mechanisms, my students raise their grade point averages from 22-25%, turning the mystery of study into mastery. School work and standardized testing is manageable and reflects their interest, their self-confidence is remarkable, and the world is their oyster.
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"We really appreciate your helping J. navigate all this stuff. Always appreciate your insights; he's doing really well. Branching out more - enjoying school. Thank you for being such a warm and steady presence for J...and us, too!"
- N and E, Washington DC
I earned a Bachelor’s degree in History from Reed College, with a year each at The University of Edinburgh, and Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts, and a Masters of Education with a Montessori certificate from Loyola University Maryland.
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I taught Montessori upper elementary in PG County for three years before opening Academic Coaching DC in 2007.
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For more than 10 years I've had the pleasure of developing student's study skills, providing expert academic support for homework, soft skills, independent project management, and SAT/ACT testing skills. My students have been accepted to Duke, The Naval Academy, Occidental, Trinity (Hartford), and Fordham.
I offer standardized testing and study skills classes through Compass Homeschool Enrichment, in Oakton, VA.