Tutor Story: ShiAnn Santiago

Kelly Education is proud to highlight the work of our talented educators. 

ShiAnn Santiago is the winner of our 2025 Educator of the Year award in the Tutor category. Ms. Santiago is a tutor at Quarter Mile Lane School in Bridgeton, New Jersey, where she tutors math for third through eighth graders. 

In this Q&A, Ms. Santiago shares about her work as a classroom tutor.

Why did you decide to become a tutor?

I became a tutor because I love to see students succeed. Often, students hesitate to ask for help, so being a supportive presence in the classroom is crucial for them to feel comfortable and encouraged.   

I have reached out to tutors when I’ve needed help in high school and when I was working on my associate degree in computer network management. We all need help sometimes.  

It’s the best feeling to see a student finally understand the material and be able to complete the work on their own successfully.  

How have your experiences shaped your tutoring approach?

My personal struggles in school, especially with high school honors classes, have taught me the importance of perseverance.  

Three people have helped me, and I see them as my mentors. My Aunt Lee (Ms. Alphefia Blount) always helped me when I was in grade school. Mrs. Vera Hexstall pushed me in the right direction when I was failing my freshman year of high school. Finally, Mr. Sherman Denby has been someone I can talk to about any topic no matter the time of day. He continues to give me insightful advice on different methods and strategies to educate students.  Not everyone learns the same way! 

How do you handle challenges faced by students?

Many students struggle academically and with home life issues. I emphasize patience and understanding, ensuring each child is seen and heard, and encouraging them to ask for help. Also, I often play games with my students. They don’t realize that the games are actually learning tools. 

What is unique about your tutoring environment?

The tutoring program at my school is a push-in classroom setting. Students in my classes have below average test scores. Many are still catching up from pandemic-related learning loss. I work under the direction of the math teachers and support the students during regular class hours. The extra support is making a difference in their test scores. 

What advice do you have for aspiring tutors? 

Be present, persistent, and proactive. It’s important to be constantly involved with students. Get to know and understand the students you work with, so you can have a better rapport with them.  

What inspires you as an educator?

My foundation in faith and the support from mentors inspire me daily. Seeing the growth and success of the students you work with can be one’s biggest reward. I truly feel called now to help students in my own community. 

What colleagues say about ShiAnn Santiago.

“Ms. Santiago has a deep understanding of mathematics and excels at explaining complex concepts clearly. She is particularly skilled at identifying gaps in student learning and developing targeted interventions. Additionally, she effectively integrates technology into her math instruction. I have witnessed firsthand how her tutoring has significantly improved students’ performance and confidence in mathematics.”  

“One memorable instance involved Ms. Santiago working with students struggling with mixed fractions. The next day she surprised them by bringing in a large cardboard pizza to illustrate the concepts in a fun and relatable way.  Her ability to create a positive classroom environment is truly remarkable she fosters a sense of community where all students feel valued and respected.” 

– Jenny Sierra-Turner, Fourth Grade Teacher 

 “Students consistently express how much they enjoy working with Miss Santiago and often ask for her specifically. They appreciate the welcoming and nurturing atmosphere she creates where every student feels heard and supported.” 

-Yaritza Martinez, Third Grade Teacher 

Congratulations, Ms. Santiago! 

“ShiAnn Santiago is a true representative of the high-quality educators Kelly Education provides to its partner schools each day,” says Nicola Soares, President of Kelly Education. 

“She operates with high integrity and makes a clear difference in ensuring student success. We are proud to recognize her commitment with this honor.” 

As one of four Educator of the Year winners, Ms. Santiago will receive a $5,000 bonus from Kelly Education, as well as $1,500 donated on her behalf to Quarter Mile Lane School in Bridgeton, New Jersey. 

Getting started with Kelly Education.

Substitute teaching is a flexible and rewarding job. Are you ready to make a difference? Complete our brief interest form, and one of our recruiters will share more about applying to be a substitute teacher. You can also learn more by reading our complete guide to becoming a substitute teacher.

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