Laura’s journey began in her Chicago suburb basement, where her early love for teaching emerged as she “played school” with her sister and cousins. Despite struggling as a student, Laura’s passion for learning and teaching persisted, fueled by her grandmother’s kindness and patience for children along with her parents’ encouragement to read. A turning point came in college when, after struggling with math in her initial teaching program, she shifted to psychology before realizing her calling lay elsewhere. Post-graduation, Laura worked in social work and crisis intervention, helping youth and victims, which rekindled her spark for teaching.

In 2013, Laura earned her Master’s in Education and began teaching children with learning disabilities, feeling she had found her place. Midway through her first teaching year, she was diagnosed with Stage 2 Papillary Thyroid Cancer. Despite tough odds and the possibility of losing her voice, Laura made a full recovery and returned to teaching with renewed strength. Over seven years, Laura identified significant challenges in the education system, from bureaucratic barriers to emotionally taxing moments, such as preparing students for active shooter drills. A lockdown during her first pregnancy marked a turning point, leading her to leave traditional teaching.

Laura began tutoring students at home, which grew into a thriving practice as the COVID pandemic struck. After her second child, she reignited her passion for education, envisioning a space where students felt safe, supported, and empowered, and where teachers were respected. This vision birthed DI Private Teacher, a mission-driven educational initiative focused on helping children and families thrive academically through perseverance, resilience, and integrity. 

This is the heart and soul of DI Private Teacher. A company that has developed out of tenacity, passion and a vision. Today, Laura and her team teach with purpose, determined to break down barriers to learning and help every child rise to their full potential.