Phoenix - North

Hi! I’m Shefali Shah, an experienced Abacus trainer with 17 years of dedication to developing students’ mental math and cognitive skills. As a master trainer, I’ve taught over 300 students, tailoring lessons to suit different age groups and learning styles while preparing many for competitions and exams. I’m passionate about creating a supportive, engaging learning environment that builds confidence and fosters growth. Whether in-person or online, I focus on making math fun and accessible for every learner.

On the personal side, when I’m not counting beads or solving math puzzles, I enjoy going on long drives, doing some adventures like hiking, skydiving and I’m always up for a good logic game or brain teaser. I also love spending time with my family and finding creative ways to bring joy into learning.

Hello!

I am Miss Lulu, a Tutor & Consultant in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area.

I have a Special Education teaching/tutoring background, and I have worked with Elementary and Middle School Student for several decades. For 3 years, I taught Language Arts and Math as a Special Education - Resource teacher in Houston, Texas. After that, I taught Seventh Grade Math including Gifted and Talented.

I completed a bachelor’s degree in special education at University of Florida and I have a Master’s degree in public health [Biostatistics & Community Health Practice] from University of Texas, Houston Health Science Center School of Public Health.

My experience has been with a variety of age groups and populations. I have had training in Executive Functioning, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity (ADHD) and working with Autistic students.

At the tutoring center, I work with each student individually assessing each learner’s strengths and weaknesses. My goal is to build confidence in the learners so they can do their best work. I focus on excellence in schoolwork and striving to achieve the highest outcomes.

My passions outside of work are traveling, hiking, walking, biking, and cooking. I love what Arizona has to offer - the desert landscapes, parks, lakes and learning more about this beautiful environment. Originally from Long Island, New York, the landscape here is so interesting and I love to see new places.

Looking forward to meeting my new students and working hard to be the best they can be!

Thank you!

Hello ! I am Nithya Ramasubramanian or Ms. Nithya to your kiddos at Best Brains.

Born and raised in India, I have called Phoenix home since 2007.
My family consists of my husband, my daughter, and a host of pets.

I hold a masters degree in Social Sciences from University of Madras, and Certificate in Early Childhood Education from Maricopa community colleges in Arizona, with SEI specialization. . I have been teaching since 2015 and have worked at preschool, elementary and middle school levels.
I love coming to Best Brains North Phoenix, and seeing how a true partnership between parents, students and teachers can work wonders in the child’s life.

Meet Ms. Julie – Dedicated Math Educator & Lifelong Learner

Hello! I’m Ms. Julie, a passionate Math Tutor at Best Brains with over 15 years of experience helping students of all ages build confidence and mastery in mathematics. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with a minor in Psychology, along with graduate-level coursework in Experimental Statistics.

Originally from Las Cruces, New Mexico, I moved to Phoenix, Arizona with my husband 27 years ago after beginning my career as an Econometrician at American Express. After seven years at AmEx, I shifted my focus to raising our two wonderful sons while also serving as a full-time caregiver to my parents. Throughout this journey, teaching and tutoring math has remained a constant and deeply rewarding part of my life.

At the Best Brains Learning Center, my goal is to help students truly understand their math concepts—not just complete homework. I strive to build strong math foundations, boost confidence, and show students how math develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills that apply far beyond the classroom. I teach with enthusiasm, patience, kindness, and genuine care for each child’s progress.

Outside of tutoring, I love spending time with my family and friends. My interests include photography, reading, journaling, traveling, volunteering, solving Sudoku puzzles, exploring farmer’s markets, and learning something new. I also enjoy cooking and baking with my husband—and I never say no to chocolate! You’ll often find me starting my day with a cup of hot coffee and winding down in the afternoon with tea.

Key Strengths:

• Strong Math Foundations (All Levels & Ages)

• Patient, Confidence-Building Instruction

• Real-World Application of Math Concepts

• Individualized Support & Encouragement

Ms. Julie’s warmth, experience, and love for learning make her a wonderful mentor for students. She looks forward to meeting you and your child and being a positive influence on their academic journey at Best Brains!

Hello! My name is Kalyani Mahurkar, and I am proud to be part of the team at Best Brains Phoenix North. I have been living in Phoenix since 2019 with my husband and our 6-year-old daughter, and I truly value being part of this vibrant community.

I hold a Master’s degree in Computer Applications. At Best Brains, I support grading, provide constructive feedback, maintain student progress records, and assist with administrative functions, ensuring each child’s steady academic growth.

I am also actively involved with community organizations and enjoy working with children, especially organizing cultural programs that help build their confidence and creativity.