Dear Parent,

If you’ve ever found yourself caught in the exhausting tug-of-war between being a supportive parent and the nightly “homework police,” you’re not alone.

I can’t tell you how many parents have shared with me—often with frustration and guilt—that they’ve tried everything: staying up late to reteach math, buying the latest planners, setting reminders, rewards, consequences… but nothing seems to stick. The truth is, it’s not your fault. And it’s not your child’s fault either.

Many students struggle not because they’re lazy or unmotivated but because they haven’t been taught the essential skills they need to manage their time, stay organized, and work independently. These are called executive function skills, and the reality is that many bright, capable kids have weaknesses in this area.

Ann Dolin
Ann Dolin, M.Ed.
Founder & President of Educational Connections

They’re expected to juggle multiple assignments, meet deadlines, and focus in a world full of distractions—but without the tools to do so successfully, school can quickly become overwhelming.

I first saw this gap as a teacher when students’ parents bravely opened up to me about what was really going on at home. Later, as a tutor, I heard the same concerns again and again: “We just don’t know how to help anymore.”

That’s what led me to start Educational Connections in 1998. I left my job teaching in Fairfax County, VA, because I wanted to create something different—something that truly supports students and gives families the relief they’re searching for. What started as just me has grown into a team of over 120 exceptional tutors and coaches who have helped more than 10,000 students from kindergarten through college.

Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:

  • Even the brightest students sometimes need help—and one-on-one support can make all the difference.
  • Kids are often more open to guidance from someone outside the family (no matter how wonderful their parents are!).
  • And most importantly, improvement doesn't come from pushing harder—it comes from using a different, more personalized approach.

That’s what we specialize in. Our tutors and executive function coaches aren’t just subject-matter experts—they’re warm, relatable mentors who know how to build confidence and create meaningful change. We tailor our approach to each child, using research-backed strategies that actually work.

If other things haven’t worked in the past, your child deserves a different approach—one that finally clicks.

We’d be honored to be part of your child’s journey.

Warmly,

Ann Dolin, M. Ed. Founder & President