Our Team
We combine classroom expertise with personalized strategy to support the whole child, not just the assignment.
Our team is made up of experienced, credentialed educators with over a decade of expertise in teaching, academic support, and consulting. We bring a strong foundation in both general and special education, with advanced degrees and professional credentials that allow us to support a wide range of student needs across grades K through 12.
Our backgrounds span traditional school settings and online learning environments, giving us a well rounded understanding of how to support students in different contexts. We have extensive experience working with IEPs, 504 plans, and student support processes, allowing us to guide families with both knowledge and confidence.
We understand that every student learns differently. As a team, we are committed to providing thoughtful, individualized support that builds confidence, strengthens academic skills, and helps each student grow into a capable and independent learner.
Han Nguyen is an educator and educational consultant specializing in academic instruction, college admissions strategy, and supporting students with diverse learning needs through an individualized, equity-driven approach. She brings extensive experience in special education, including IEPs, 504 plans, and intervention systems such as MTSS, and has served in both teaching and administrative/leadership roles. In these positions, she has collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to design data-driven support systems that help students succeed in rigorous academic settings. She holds a Master’s degree in Special Education from Loyola Marymount University, along with a Special Education teaching credential (with Autism and English Learner authorizations) and a Preliminary Administrative Credential through Los Angeles County Office of Education.
Han also brings a unique insider perspective to the college admissions process. As a former application reader for the University of California, she has reviewed over 2,000 applications across freshman, transfer, and international applicants. She now guides students in crafting authentic, compelling applications that reflect their strengths and lived experiences. In addition, she serves on the board of a scholarship foundation, mentoring students from middle school through high school—planning college tours, advising on academic pathways, and reviewing college and scholarship applications. As a full-ride recipient to UC Berkeley, a QuestBridge College Prep Scholar, and a Hamilton Scholar, she is passionate about helping students access transformative educational opportunities.
Favorite Book: And Then There Were None by Agatha Christine
Hobbies and Interests: Han is a proud plant mom who finds joy in growing her ever-expanding collection (and keeping them alive…most of the time). She loves unwinding with a good anime night in, and is on a mission to visit all 63 U.S. National Parks while traveling the world in search of her next unforgettable meal.
Han Nguyen
Leana Gatchalian is a professional educator committed to fostering the academic growth and holistic development of every student. She brings a strong background in collaborating with educational partners to design individualized academic and social-emotional support plans tailored to diverse student needs. Her experience includes coordinating and recommending targeted interventions and services that promote inclusive and effective learning environments.
Leana transferred from a community college with an associate’s degree in social sciences through the Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) program and went on to complete her bachelor’s degree at UC Berkeley. She holds a Master’s degree in Special Education from Loyola Marymount University and a Preliminary Administrative Credential from the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE). She is skilled in problem-solving, conflict resolution, and building meaningful relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
P.S. She is North Star’s Excel sheet expert!
Favorite Book: The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Hobbies and Interests: Leana loves all things health and fitness! When she’s not supporting students, she’s leading group fitness classes and keeping everyone on their toes. She enjoys traveling. Whether in National Parks or overseas, she has a strong commitment to hitting her step count in every destination. In her downtime, you’ll find her curled up with her two dogs and a good book—recharging for her next adventure.
Leana Gatchalian
A California-based educator, Emma brings nearly a decade of experience supporting students with diverse learning needs and guiding families through the complexities of special education. Over the past five years, she has worked closely with schools across Los Angeles to help students with disabilities access rigorous, meaningful educational opportunities while empowering families to navigate their rights, services, and supports confidently.
Earlier in her career, Emma taught in Oklahoma at a newly established school designed to address longstanding opportunity gaps—an experience that shaped her commitment to equity and access. With credentials in both general and special education, along with an autism authorization, she offers a highly individualized, student-centered approach. Emma is skilled in working with a wide range of learners and family dynamics, providing thoughtful, strategic support that meets each student where they are and helps them move forward with confidence.
Favorite Book:The Princess Bride by William Goldman & Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas and Auguste Maquet
Hobbies & Interests: Emma is an artist! She enjoys creative expression through painting, drawing, and writing, and loves staying active through soccer and outdoor adventures like hiking. Known for her energy and warmth, she also values connection—whether that’s spending time outdoors or simply “yapping” to build meaningful relationships.
