HES provides a wide variety of individual  student support for students of all ages, whether it is through executive-functioning coaching, educational advocacy, or college counseling.  Our team has a particular expertise serving neurodivergent learners (ADHD, ADD, ASD) who need tailored strategies to access classroom content and who may qualify for Special Education or 504 services.  With college admissions increasingly holistic and competitive, targeted guidance on applications, school selection, and financial aid is more important than ever.

 

Founder Patrick Sullivan  brings over 25 years of experience in public education, including roles as a high school teacher, school counselor, and administrator. Most recently, he spent five years with Pearson supporting Rhode Island Connections Academy and Great Lakes Learning Academy in Michigan, where he served as Manager of Counseling Services and 504 Coordinator. His experience across both traditional and virtual school settings has given him a strong understanding of student support, academic planning, and family advocacy. Patrick’s broad K–12 background informs HES’s student-centered approach to academic coaching, educational advocacy, and postsecondary planning, helping students and families navigate school decisions with confidence.

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Dr. Melanie Miller  brings over 11 years of diverse educational experience, including roles as an elementary teacher, special education teacher, assistant principal, and Manager of Special Education. With five years in the virtual school setting, she has developed a deep understanding of IDEA and special education laws in North Carolina, Michigan, and Rhode Island. Her extensive knowledge of special education compliance enables her to effectively advocate for appropriate IEP services and support robust post-secondary planning for students. Dr. Miller is committed to ensuring that all students receive the resources they need to thrive.

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Katherine Schoppel  has taught English at Barrington High School (Barrington, Rhode Island) for the past 25 years, where she has inspired students to develop strong reading, writing, and critical thinking skills.  Over time, she became especially recognized for her expertise in supporting college-bound students as they crafted compelling personal statements and application essays. In 2023, Katherine founded Authentic Applicant, a business devoted to helping students navigate the college application essay process. Through this work, she partners with students to uncover meaningful personal stories and shape them into powerful, authentic essays that reflect who they are beyond grades and test scores. Her approach emphasizes reflection, voice, and individuality, ensuring each student’s application stands out in a competitive admissions landscape.  

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With 26 years of experience as a secondary English teacher and former English Department Head, Sara Gray brings extensive expertise in English instruction and SAT preparation. She has taught numerous SAT classes on Aquidneck Island and in Tiverton and currently tutors students internationally for the Digital SAT, helping students strengthen their scores for admission to competitive colleges and universities. Her personalized approach uses diagnostic testing to identify individual areas of weakness, with focused instruction on each type of Digital SAT question and test-taking strategies woven throughout every lesson. She incorporates engaging, nontraditional approaches to vocabulary development while creating a supportive and accommodating learning environment. She genuinely enjoys working with teenagers and is committed to helping each student build skills, confidence, and stronger SAT scores.

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