Tutor, Coach, or Concierge Teacher? Understanding the Difference
If you're exploring support for your child, you may find yourself swimming in a sea of terms: tutor, academic coach, executive function specialist, learning strategist, concierge educator...
It can be overwhelming—and confusing.
So let’s clear it up.
Here’s how these roles differ, and where a concierge teacher fits in.
Tutor: Content-Focused Help
What they do:
Tutors are subject-matter specialists. They help a student understand academic content in areas like math, reading, writing, or science.
When it works:
When your child is struggling in a specific class
When they just need a little reinforcement or reteaching
When they’re preparing for a test or project
Limitations:
Tutors focus mostly on what to learn, not how to learn. They often don’t address:
Executive function
Emotional regulation
Long-term learning patterns or motivation
Academic or Executive Function Coach: Process-Focused Help
What they do:
Academic and EF coaches help students develop systems and skills like:
Time management
Planning and prioritizing
Study routines
Organization and task initiation
When it works:
When your child can handle academic content but can’t keep track of deadlines
When there’s a disconnect between ability and performance
For students with ADHD, anxiety, or inconsistent motivation
Limitations:
Many coaches do not have teaching credentials or special education training. They support process, but not academic content or IEP/504 needs.
Concierge Teacher: Integrated, Personalized, Holistic Support
What I do:
As a certified special educator, subject-area teacher, and executive function coach, I offer full-spectrum educational support tailored to your child. That means:
Teaching and coaching
Content and process
Academics and executive function
Advocacy and emotional support
When it works:
For students with complex needs—academic, social-emotional, or neurological
When multiple layers of support are needed under one roof
For transitions: middle school, high school, college
For families tired of patchwork solutions
Bonus:
I also collaborate with schools, therapists, and families to create continuity and reduce stress for everyone involved.
Why the Right Fit Matters
Choosing the right type of support can make the difference between:
Short-term help vs. lasting growth
Dependency vs. independence
Surviving school vs. thriving in life
A tutor might help your child pass a test. A coach might help them remember to study.
But a concierge teacher helps them become the kind of learner who doesn’t need rescuing in the first place.
Let’s Find What Fits
If your child has been bouncing between supports and still feels stuck, they may need someone who can see the big picture—and meet them in all the places school can’t.
That’s what I do.
Want to find out if concierge teaching is the right match for your family?
Let’s connect for a complimentary consultation!
