Testimonials

“We started working with Liz the year that schools returned to in-person teaching. Coming out of the pandemic, both of my children were placed in literacy intervention programs as they were reading below grade level. However, after a year of working with Liz they graduated from the intervention class; and a year after that, both are reading and writing above grade level. With English Language Arts in better shape, Liz then began spending some of their time together on mathematics. They grew exponentially in their math comprehension, and more importantly, in their confidence. Both of their teachers have remarked that they are academically gifted - and have brought up the possibility of GATE (gifted and talented) programs in their futures. We worked hard as a family to help our children catch up; but it was Liz's one-on-one work with them, as well as the guidance she offered us as parents, that made the crucial difference.

While academics are important in our family, what is far more important is self-confidence, and a love of learning. Both of these qualities were tested by the pandemic, but Liz has been able to turn our childrens' early experience of school around, giving them the attention and individualized support they needed. Working with her, they do more than learn - they come to truly understand their subjects, and are interested enough in them to think creatively, and innovatively.

Liz has been an invaluable thought-partner as I consider what schools will be best for my children in middle school. She has an in-depth understanding of Los Angeles's complicated educational system, and is able to consider how her students would feel, and be supported, in different schools. Because she considers each child holistically - rather than through the lens of any given academic subject - she is able to make recommendations that include but go beyond academics, and incorporate creative talents, friendship styles, and what kind of support each child might need in order to thrive.”

—Names kept confidential for client privacy

“Liz Doan is an education guru. Ever since we joined her Wild Poppy preschool when our kids were younger, our family has gained from her experience, wisdom and insights on education. She is enormously knowledgeable, has her finger on the pulse of both public and private schools, and is deft at navigating the ins and outs of what can be an overwhelming and opaque system.

Liz has also tutored our children in elementary school, always pushing them beyond their limits academically, while encouraging their creative thinking. She has the most infectious laugh- It is a joy to be around her- both for parents and kids. If Liz could bring her gifts to every school, our educational system would be groundbreaking!”

-Andrea

“Empathetic, empowering, earnest. Three words that describe Teacher Liz to a tee. When we reach out to Teacher Liz, it’s because we’ve exhausted literally every option that we can possibly think of and are feeling totally and utterly helpless as parents. Somehow, Teacher Liz helps us chart a path forward, offering concrete, thoughtful solutions that always feel so incredibly specific to us, our children and our situation.

We’ve come to Teacher Liz for many things over the years. For a “biting phase.” For a dysfunctional bedtime routine. For a school dropoff that seemed to always end in tears. Every time we’ve consulted her, our lives got better — all of our lives, our children’s included.

We owe a lot to Teacher Liz. Parenting is hard, but it’s a lot less hard with her in this world.”

—Lynn

“I have deeply appreciated Liz's thoughtful, expert guidance into the realm of neurodivergent learning styles and behaviors. She has been able to do more for my understanding of different neurotypes than my child's pediatrician, or her teacher. I feel like I have a guide, and a mentor - and that my child has a committed ally.”

—Names kept confidential for client privacy

“Liz created the perfect environment to nurture my child’s growth and to help her discover her true voice. Liz provided the continuity and support we needed during those most formative years and provided both my child and me with invaluable memories. I cherish and adore Liz and the foundation she has provided for our family. Graduating from preschool was bittersweet. I wanted to keep my child in the perfect little community Liz had created. But we have kept in touch and Liz has been an excellent resource and encouraging voice throughout the years. I have leaned on her during pivotal moments, most recently when trying to choose the most appropriate middle school for my daughter. Liz knows my child’s learning style and her scholastic personality better than anyone and I trust her educational expertise above all else. I’m grateful to watch my teenager flourishing in the Science Olympiad and excelling in art classes knowing that Teacher Liz helped plant and cultivate those seeds.”

— TaMarra

“It was an immense relief to speak with someone who genuinely listened to my concerns and empathized with the challenges I was facing. I felt like I was not alone in this process. Elizabeth not only provided me with practical guidance to navigate the complexities of my divorce, but she also offered invaluable emotional support throughout the process. Her unwavering presence made me feel supported and reassured, as if I had a true ally by my side. Through her expertise, Elizabeth imparted wisdom, clarity, and strength, empowering me to confront each step of the journey with confidence and determination. Her feedback and suggestions on navigating the challenges of parenting a preteen amidst divorce and dual households have been both thoughtful and practical. Elizabeth is a fantastic listener; she took the time to understand the unique characteristics of my child and collaborated with me to devise a plan tailored to our family's needs. Elizabeth instilled confidence in me that I was on the right path with my child. I felt tremendous support from her and genuinely appreciated her care and dedication. It has been a pleasure working with Elizabeth, and I wholeheartedly recommend her coaching services.”

—Jasmine

“I am grateful to Liz for her outstanding contribution to my children's growth in Math and English. Her unique teaching approach has not only bolstered their academic skills but also ignited a deep appreciation for learning.

Liz’s ability to make complex concepts accessible and engaging has led to significant progress in reading, writing, research, creative, and critical thinking skills. Her dedication to personalized learning and consistent follow-up has been pivotal in my children's development, providing them with the confidence and joy to face new challenges at school.

The most remarkable change, however, has been in their self-confidence and enthusiasm for learning, a direct result of Liz's positive influence. She has equipped them not just with knowledge, but with the courage to explore and think independently.

I thank Liz for her passion, commitment, and the magical touch she brings to teaching. She is more than a tutor; she is an inspiration to our family.”

— Sam

“Liz is an astounding educator! She motivated my children into learning key fundamentals in a way that was very interactive and engaging. As parents, we value the guidance she offers us that enable our children to academically flourish. We saw improvements with their reading, math and critical thinking skills within just the first month of her working with our children. I cannot thank her enough for the impact she has had on our children.”

—Dennis

“Elizabeth was a breath of fresh air for our family. We were coming from a previously bad experience at another preschool. Coming to her was the best choice for our son. She opened her mindful heart and home to us with radical acceptance and loving awareness each and every step of the way, and he thrived. You could tell she made each choice for her school whether it be how the environment felt with how each room was set up, how her curriculum was taught (Reggio) and the teachers she hand selected to join her team. They thoughtfully worked together cohesively with positive loving energy. She really sees every child for who they are. We did not feel this way at our prior preschool, but with Elizabeth we felt it immensely.

Her background as a teacher herself and as a mom is woven meaningfully into her approach. Her  joy and passion allows the parent to hear her feedback and thoughts about how to navigate the often windy road of early childhood. I trust Liz with her guidance and still to this day call her with questions as she will always be a lifelong resource for parenting and human development for this lifetime.”

—Michelle and Rob

“Liz is more than an educational consultant – she always goes above and beyond. Her wealth of knowledge as a teacher and multitude of past experiences has helped my kids thrive. She is passionate about pedagogy and inspiring students through play, imagination, and creativity. As the Director and teacher of the preschool program that both my kids attended, Liz built a program that focused on quality and consistency, centered around developmentally appropriate practices and strategies. As a parent, her leadership skills and experience in teaching and mentoring provided me guidance and valuable insights into the best environment for my kids, as they moved forward from preschool. “

—Becky