The Founders | Alyssa Newman + Deanna Lazarcheck
Long before they became educators, Alyssa Newman and Deanna Lazarcheck were lining up their stuffed animals (and occasionally their brothers), eager to “teach” them anything and everything.
Years later, while working just down the hall from one another at a public school in Manhattan’s District 2, they discovered a shared approach to education—one grounded in a deep understanding of child development, a commitment to inclusive learning, and the belief that every child deserves to feel known, capable, and supported.
In 2014, Alyssa and Deanna brought that shared vision to life with Prime Learning Advisors. What began as two educators with a common philosophy has grown into a trusted educational practice supporting children and families across New York City and beyond.
The Prime Learning Advisors Team
Alyssa provides private tutoring for students from Pre-K through middle school, helping children build confidence and develop strong foundations in reading, writing, and literacy. With deep expertise in differentiating instruction, she tailors her approach to each child’s individual strengths and needs, with particular experience supporting diverse learners.
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In addition to her work with students, Alyssa consults with schools on literacy instruction and inclusive education and has trained and coached educators throughout New York City and beyond. Alyssa holds degrees in Childhood and Special Education and English from Syracuse University and a Master’s Degree in Literacy from Teachers College, Columbia University, and is a trained Reading Recovery teacher. She began her career in New York City public schools as a classroom teacher, grade-team leader, and special education provider. Alyssa combines research-based literacy instruction with a warm, individualized approach that helps students grow into confident and capable readers and writers.
Deanna provides private tutoring for students from Pre-K through middle school, drawing on more than 15 years of experience as an educator, instructional coach, and mathematics consultant. She helps children build confidence, strengthen problem-solving skills, and develop a deep understanding of the why behind math—not simply memorize steps.
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Deanna also supports students in literacy and provides individualized preparation for the ISEE, SSAT, and NYS assessments. In addition to her work with students, Deanna is a mathematics education consultant who partners with schools to strengthen math curriculum and instruction. Her experience coaching educators gives her a unique perspective on how children learn, identify patterns, and work through misconceptions. Deanna holds degrees in Childhood and Special Education and Psychology from NYU, as well as a Master’s Degree in Literacy from Hunter College. She began her career as an elementary classroom teacher and teacher leader in New York City. Deanna combines rigorous, research-based instruction with a warm, encouraging approach that helps students see themselves as confident and capable mathematicians, readers, and writers.
The Tutors
Our tutors are exceptional educators, thoughtfully selected for their expertise, experience, and ability to connect with children. Prime Learning Advisors works with a carefully vetted team of certified teachers and education professionals, many of whom hold Master’s degrees and advanced training in specialized areas of teaching and learning.
Our tutors bring experience from some of New York City’s most respected schools and educational settings, along with a deep understanding of how children learn and grow. Just as importantly, they are warm, engaging educators who know how to build trust, nurture confidence, and meet each child exactly where they are.
We take great care in matching each child with the right tutor, considering not only academic needs and areas of expertise, but also personality, learning style, interests, and the kind of connection that will help that child thrive.