Meet Shari

Shari Friedman, Founder and Academic Coach

Welcome to SF Academic Coaching!

As an educator and parent of three, I have worked in tandem with so many young people who have navigated either learning differences, executive functioning challenges or anxiety. Seeing first-hand the stressors brought on by these individual learning differences and “real world” challenges, I decided to launch SF Academic Coaching. SF Academic Coaching helps students and families chart a clear path forward in their education-related endeavors.

Built on evidence-based strategies and consistent feedback, I wanted to create a space for young people to explore their own personal learning styles, examine their current barriers and build and practice effective strategies for motivation and achievement. The bonus for you, as the adult in your child’s life, is being able to take a step back and watch them become empowered, self-reliant, and well on their way to lifelong academic success.

I invite you to reach out today to chat more about your child and their needs.

All my best,

Shari

 
 

Kind Words About Shari

“Our son, Will, started working with Shari at the beginning of 8th grade. He was initially reluctant to begin the process, but quickly saw that she was able to make the overwhelming task of completing responses to ten different open-ended questions for three high school applications seem manageable. These immediate results engaged him from the start. Upon completion of the essays, Will continued to work on planning his time, staying ahead of assignments, and breaking big projects or test prep down into manageable chunks of work. Shari also encouraged him to communicate with his teachers where he was previously reluctant to approach his teachers with questions or concerns. As a parent, any arguments or struggles about assignments went away since Will and Ms. Shari met weekly and Will began to stay on top of his work. We have observed a big “growth spurt” from a maturity perspective in Will during 8th grade while working with Shari. With her guidance, he developed the skills necessary to be successful in high school and beyond.”

— Kelly R

 Why Shari?

Just a few of Shari’s career highlights which make her uniquely qualified as an Academic Coach for your child…

  • Over 25 years of experience in education, including 16 years as a classroom teacher and more than five years working specifically with students who have learning differences and executive functioning challenges.

  • Numerous academic coaching qualifications including a Master’s in Teaching, Smart, But Scattered certification, Motivational Interviewing credentials and Trauma Informed coursework.

  • Extensive knowledge of IEP/504 Plans and experience delivering their related accommodations in and out of the classroom setting, as well as coaching students to advocate for their own support services.

  • Several years partnering with local organizations to mentor and tutor underserved students affiliated with local nonprofits.

  • Over 25 years lived experience parenting three adult children who have successfully navigated the impact of anxiety, ADHD or Autism.