Brooklyn Letters IconBrooklyn Letters

1139 Prospect Avenue, Brooklyn

4.9 56 reviews

  • Avatar Emily Matles ★★★★★ a week ago
    We would highly recommend Ally! Our son always asks about her, so very thankful to Brooklyn Letters for introducing us.
    ~ Emily, mom of Brooklyn 2 year old
  • Avatar Natalie Levon ★★★★★ 4 months ago
    Nicole has been an amazing therapist!! She played a tremendous role in our daughter’s speech progress and overall development. She has come such a long way and we are so happy with the therapy she received!
  • Avatar T Ainsley ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    I cannot express how grateful and rewarding my experience with Brooklyn Letters has been. Her tutor Ms. Daria is so knowledgeable, amazing, kind and awesome. My daughter has made so much progress in Literacy and Math and it's all … More thanks to Ms. Daria. I know my daughter is sad that she can no longer work with Ms. Daria, as she looked forward to their sessions every week. Thank you again!
  • Avatar Jackie Vasquez ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Excellent services, caring therapists.
  • Avatar Lil Amatore ★★★★★ 8 months ago
    Christina was absolutely wonderful. She went out of her way to win my son over and it worked. He looked forward to her visits and his speech improved so much under her care. She was super flexible and it’s clear she truly cares. We adore … More Christina and we’re going to miss her. Almost sad he improved so much! She’s simply amazing and we can’t say enough how great she is. I would recommend her services to anyone and everyone, without hesitation. Thank you so much for connecting us with her!
  • Avatar Colin Peters ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    We could not be happier with the services Valerie provided! She is very thoughtful and knowledgeable and provided significant guidance to support our daughter's speech development outside of our scheduled sessions. She established … More a great working relationship with her, and she will definitely be missed! Your business model is amazing and it was an absolute pleasure working with Valerie. I've referred your organization and Valerie to the Executive Director of our daughter's school and friends/colleagues who are in need of speech therapy services.
  • Avatar Heather Liljengren ★★★★★ a year ago
    We cannot say enough good things about Effie, the ASL teacher, who was so engaged and effective with our 2 year old daughter from the very first session! Effie gladly included our whole family in the sessions! Her expertise and fantastic … More personality gave our daughter a way to communicate that she was so desperately seeking. The coordinators at Brooklyn Letters were so helpful and communicative…I would highly recommend their services!
  • Avatar Chris duke Fields ★★★★★ a month ago
    The company is great with outstanding customer service. They keep my horses protected. I have recommended them to other horses trainers as well that are going to get service early next year. Very professional an honest too. Respectfully … More submitted Christopher
  • Avatar Nikhil Jaisinghani ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Ron and Ken did a fantastic job with our security system today. Installed everything very quick. Both of them were very polite and asked us throughout if the installation met our needs. Simply fantastic!
  • Avatar Linda Parsley ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    I called Cornerstone Protection to get a Security system at a relatives out of state property, within a week it was installed! The installers worked with the client to help understand her new system and she was happy! Our relative said … More they were courteous, professional and patient! I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection for all of your security needs!
  • Avatar Amanda Clay Mackin ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Had blink cameras; Car was broken into multiple times so I called CornerStone & they were able to install multiple cameras very quickly & for a reasonable price. I am so happy with the app & getting alerts that are not superfluous, … More like they were with Blink. Highly recommend CornerStone & the tech Ronnie.
  • Avatar Pete Peters ★★★★★ 4 months ago
    Ron and Ken are great guys to work with.
    Both were very knowledgeable and got our system back up and running.
    Thanks to both for a job well done...
  • Avatar Brigid Bower ★★★★★ 11 months ago
    Samantha Dalmas was fantastic! We saw her for a feeding therapy evaluation and while she doesn’t think my daughter needs more feeding therapy sessions at this time, but she gave me lots of tips to try. If my daughter's doctors want … More to see more progress at her next appointment, I wouldn’t hesitate to reach out to Samantha again.
  • Avatar Larry Barton ★★★★★ a year ago
    Amazing assistance provided by Shannon today on my security system. I’m so grateful for your prompt, efficient, professional, and courteous service. Put me down as a customer for life!
  • Avatar Megan Haller ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    One of the most painless experiences I've had. They came on time and was over the moon professional with still keeping a level of personability to it. The gentleman also went out of his way to say that my husband and Mines business … More was appreciated. Which is actually rare to be appreciated by such a great company. So thank you and we look forward to continuing services with this company.
  • Avatar Megan Magsam ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    I am so happy we decided to go with cornerstone. They were quick and efficient. Shannon and the installer we very friendly. We got a lot of equipment and it was still within our budget. 10/10 would definitely recommend! Thank you
  • Avatar Collins Youngblood ★★★★★ a year ago
    Love the customer service and Shanon and his team go above and beyond for my restaurant. Couldn't of asked for a better security system and level of service that his team provides.
  • Avatar kanu patel ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    I have been using Cornerstone Protection service for over 5 years and I'm really happy with the service and state-of-the-art equipments and it's futures are so much in advance and friendly, I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection … More Service any and all business that need a security protection days and nights specially after business hours(Cornerstone Protection is perfect solution for your business). Owner of Cornerstone Protection is proactive with their customers and their equipments. Good experienced with Cornerstone Protection!!!
    Kanu Patel
  • Avatar Liz Jones ★★★★ 2 years ago
    We had a very positive experience with Alissa as a tutor for our pod of 5th grade boys from January - June 2020. She cared a lot about the boys and worked hard to create meaningful activities for them. The pod experience was invaluable … More for all of our families during a difficult year and we were so grateful to have found this partnership! We also want to appreciate Craig for helping to match us with a tutor on very short notice after we had cycled through a few folks who were not able to see the commitment through. Thanks for sticking with us!
  • Avatar S CL ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Dusty was the exact person we needed to help our child finish out the school year. So grateful to him for the way he steadily encouraged her and helped her stay on track and organized. He is flexible, responsive to our needs/schedule as … More a family, and a delight to be with. We are also thankful that Craig at Themba Tutors really "gets it" and partnered us with such a wonderful tutor who was a great fit for our girl.
  • Avatar Nicole May ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    My child worked with Gillian D virtually for math enrichment. She is an excellent teacher. She took time to understand my child's specific learning style and provided tools that would be engaging. She was kind and empathetic- really … More made it her goal to connect with my child and build trust and rapport. My child started the school year with confidence and without the typically "brain-drain" that occurs over the summer, thanks to Gillian.
  • Avatar Gillian Davidoff ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    I am going into my second year as a Themba tutor. I have met so many great individuals while working for this company. Craig and the rest of the Themba team do such an excellent job picking and choosing Themba tutors that suit each client's … More individual needs! I look forward to meeting new tutors and clients in the 2021-2022 school year!
  • Avatar carolina luttmann ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Our son started in a new high school, 100% remote, and was really struggling with Latin and Physics. I found Themba Tudors online and had an initial call with Craig, who was very knowledgeable, responsive, and found 2 amazing tutors for … More us. Both the Latin and the physics tutors were fantastic, connected with my son really well and helped him go from 'failing' grade to 'honors'! I will for sure continue using (and recommending!) Themba Tutors. Thank you, C, K, and W!
  • Avatar Eric Fingerman ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Brian is a fantastic executive functioning coach. Super helpful, flexible with hours, and tailored the experience to our needs.
  • Avatar Susan Wong ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Giulia Mercuri is a great Italian tutor! She was very responsive and accessible. Giulia put a ton of effort into preparing for each session and really helped our son with test preparation and projects. We are grateful that she was able … More to help, especially since our son did not receive any live teaching during COVID. We are happy that she was referred to us!
  • Avatar Christine Gennetti ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    As an adult student diagnosed with a learning disability during grad school, I knew I needed help dealing with my Master's program's demanding workload. I was seriously considering dropping out when I was referred to Themba Tutors. … More I was paired up with a wonderful tutor, Julie, who was a total lifesaver. I learned many techniques that I can utilize in the future as I embark on the next phase of my career.
    I can wholeheartedly say after working with Themba for two years that I would not have finished my program without this organization. And I am so thankful I selected them.
  • Avatar Fabiola FITZPATRICK ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    We were introduced to a wonderful tutor: Mcedwyn. He and our son, a freshman in college, worked well together. As a result, our son’s grades significantly improved. The tutor taught our son subject content and various methods to effectively … More study for quizzes and exams. Our son was also taught time management and organization. My son’s experience with the tutor made the first year of college a less intimidating experience.
  • Avatar Jude Eugene ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    We have been with our tutor, Cailin Schiller, for two years, from 5th - 7th grade. She started as an executive functioning tutor with my daughter. From the start, she demonstrated a depth of expertise and a selective use of techniques skillfully … More adapted to my daughter’s ADHD and Math disability. Cailin made Math accessible and understandable to her in a way that even her teachers had not been able to do. She differentiated reading, writing and math tasks and assignments to tailor them to my daughter’s unique learning differences. Not only did it have an effect on her grades and her work efficiency, but she finally could do her work with less anxiety. Even my daughter’s teachers used Cailin’s guidance to modify their work with her. But most importantly, she became my daughter’s favorite resource. I can’t say how invaluable Cailin has been to my daughter’s progress and well-being. I’d recommend her a million times over. She is a gem.
  • Avatar Janice Eidus ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Victoria is a superb tutor. She helped my high school age daughter with her writing. Victoria's skills as a tutor, as well as her sense of humor and her engaging personality went a long way with my daughter.
  • A Google User ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    I'm so glad we were referred to Themba Tutors. After a great initial conversation to learn our needs, we were connected with an excellent tutor, Felicia, who is helping our high school daughter learn better organizational and executive … More skills. Highly recommended.
  • Avatar Fara Jones ★★★★★ 5 years ago
    Themba Tutors provided a leaning specialist that was a perfect fit for my daughter. I told them what we were looking for and they delivered. Our tutor is responsive and flexible and makes it easy for my daughter to reach out to her own … More her own, which gives her an added sense of responsibility over her learning. As a therapist myself, I now regularly recommend Themba to my patients. A much needed and well provided service to the community!!
  • Avatar Frances Simpson ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
  • Avatar Mary Jean Babic ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    I'm so glad we were referred to Themba Tutors. After a great initial conversation to learn our needs, we were connected with an excellent tutor, Felicia, who is helping our high school daughter learn better organizational and executive … More skills. Highly recommended.
  • Avatar Nina Herman ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    We had a wonderful experience with our tutor Micaela. She helped our son not only academically but at every level. We will be forever grateful to have her in our lives.
  • Avatar Frances ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
  • Avatar Michael Birnbaum ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Paul Smith at Themba has been an exceptional tutor for my son, both in terms of teaching the subject matter and teaching how best to approach the process of learning math and executing assignments. We feel very fortunate to be working with … More Paul.
  • Avatar Monica Alzate ★★★★★ 5 years ago
    We were very lucky to have found Edwouine Swift, my son's therapist through Themba Tutors. Thomas is 12 years old, and it is extremely difficult to get him to write. Edwouine just works her magic with him, he adores her and is so … More eager to follow her guidance. I have no doubt she will be a positive driving force in his academic future.

Math Tutors

BEST 1:1 SSAT TUTORING FOR NEURODIVERGENT STUDENTS

Best 1:1 in-person & remote SSAT Tutoring for Neurodivergent Students | FREE CONSULTATIONS | MEET-AND-GREETS WITH OUR STAFF

SSAT Tutoring in New York City

Themba Tutors: Trust and Excellence in SSAT Tutoring Services for Neurodivergent Students

Since 2012, Themba Tutors has delivered highly individualized private tutoring and academic coaching for students with diverse learning profiles. Our name means “trust” in Swahili, and that principle guides how we design lessons, assess progress, and support each student’s academic growth in person and online.

In our work with SSAT students, we commonly focus on time management, executive functioning, and test-taking strategies that directly impact performance. Our tutors provide flexible scheduling, real-time feedback, and targeted practice across all SSAT sections, helping students build both confidence and measurable skills.

Our comprehensive SSAT preparation addresses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, reading comprehension, and essay writing. Families also receive access to free at-home practice tests, allowing students to reinforce strategies between sessions.

SSAT Tutoring Customized for the Neurodivergent Students

Research shows that standardized testing can present unique challenges for neurodivergent students. Our SSAT tutoring programs are designed to meet those challenges through individualized instruction that adapts to each student’s learning profile, strengths, and support needs.

Certified Experts: Our tutors and learning specialists have experience supporting students with ADHD, learning disabilities, and complex academic profiles.

What’s Included

  • Consultation with Our Accommodations Specialist: A detailed review of learning needs and SSAT accommodations.
  • One-on-One Tutoring: Personalized SSAT instruction with an experienced neurodiversity-affirming tutor.
  • Neurodivergent-Specific Test Strategies: Techniques designed to reduce cognitive load and improve test performance.
  • Accommodation Strategy Support: Guidance on applying and using approved SSAT accommodations effectively.

We Travel To You!

SSAT Tutoring in New York City

We provide SSAT tutoring delivered directly to your doorstep throughout the NYC Metro Area (Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Manhattan, and the Bronx). Not in NYC? Check out our other locations for additional options.

Here’s How We Can Assist with Test Prep

  • Interactive Lessons: Our dynamic, hands-on sessions are designed to meet the unique needs of each learner.
  • Personalized Assessments: Customized evaluations help identify strengths and areas for growth.
  • Reinforcement Through Practice: Structured repetition and targeted practice support long-term retention.
  • Real-Time Goal and Note Sharing: Clear communication with parents promotes collaboration and reduces stress.
  • Standards-Aligned Resources: Access to pre-built assessments and practice tests aligned with educational standards.

Expert SSAT Tutors and Coaches

  • Advanced Degrees: More than 90% of our tutors hold advanced degrees in education or related fields.
  • Local and Caring Staff: Our team includes experienced, compassionate educators from the local community.

Proven Success and Social Proof

  • Proven Success: Since 2012, we have supported students from over 100 schools and served more than 1,000 individuals.
  • Excellent Feedback: Families consistently share positive testimonials about our results.
  • Highly Recommended: We receive referrals from schools and professionals who recognize our expertise.

Exceptional Standards and Outcomes

  • Certified Specialists in Learning Disabilities and ADHD: Our professionals provide tailored, neurodiversity-affirming support.
  • Focused Study Skills Training: Clear instruction helps students build effective, transferable learning strategies.

TESTIMONIALS

Barbara was absolutely fantastic with Lila, and we were very happy with her. Lila got accepted to her first choice, and we appreciated the help not only with her essay but also with general college questions Barbara was able to help her with.

 

– Teena M. 

David was very helpful because he showed me new ways to study that I hadn’t even considered, and he also helped me understand how to take different approaches to tests.

 

– Chase A. 

David is an absolutely extraordinary tutor! He is extremely clear in his instructions, patient, kind, and has a very positive demeanor. He was also very flexible with his schedule. My daughter loved working with him, as did I.

 

– E.G.  

Everything went very well with Alissa. So well, in fact, that my daughter received a 93% on her final! My daughter felt Alissa understood her learning style, and that has been challenging over the years of working with tutors. So grateful. Thank you!

 

– Lucy L.  

At Themba Tutors, we take the time to help students/clients understand their strengths and progress in areas where they need to improve. We offer personalized tools for each of our clients to help them become more aware of their individual needs as they work towards short-term goals. Improving these skills will benefit our students’/clients’ long-term plans.

About Us

SSAT Tutoring in New York City

At Themba Tutors, we specialize in SSAT tutoring, particularly for students with diverse learning needs. Our team, which includes academic tutors, learning specialists, and executive function coaches, has an extensive experience in providing personalized SSAT support. We focus on building strong relationships and offering comprehensive support services. Renowned for our flexibility, we emphasize a tailored approach that addresses each student’s unique requirements, ensuring they are thoroughly prepared and confident for their SSAT exam.

Comprehensive Free Intake Process for SSAT Tutoring

  1. Initial Consultation: Schedule a free call with our intake coordinator to discuss your family’s needs. We will evaluate your child’s current SSAT performance (and conduct reassessments if needed) and identify target schools and their required test scores.  
  2. Review of Reports: Our owner and CEO, Craig Selinger, will review previous test reports, SSAT scores, psychological evaluations, and school records.  
  3. Develop a Study Plan: We will craft a customized study plan based on your goals and timeline, focusing on key areas of the SSAT: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, and Essay Writing.  
  4. Specialist Matching: Craig will pair your student with our SSAT specialists and provide their biographies for your review.  
  5. Free Consultations: We offer free online meetings with a selection of our SSAT tutors and coaches, presenting you with the best options based on your needs. 
  6. Select a Tutor/Coach: Choose a prep tutor or coach and schedule the first paid session. Payment is due immediately after the initial session.

Our comprehensive intake process guarantees a personalized and effective approach to SSAT preparation. At Themba Tutors, we are dedicated to offering exceptional private remote and online tutoring services, making us the ideal choice for families seeking specialized support for their middle and high school students.

Building a Team

Themba Tutors has offered coaching and tutoring services since the summer of 2012. Founded by Craig Selinger, an educational consulting and executive function coaching expert, our organization benefits from his extensive background in these fields. Under Craig’s guidance, we have developed a thorough and personalized approach to tutoring. Our team members are selected based on referrals and recommendations. After evaluating your needs, we match your child with the team member best suited to support their educational objectives.

DAVID K.
DAVID K.

Masters in Special Education and Trained in Orton-Gillingham

Evan
EVAN

Master’s in Leadership in Math Education, Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics

SSAT
GOUTHAM

Master’s in Data Science

MARIEL G.
MARIEL

Bachelor’s in Comparative Human Development with a minor in Chemistry

ALISSA
ALISSA

M.S. in Adolescent Special Education

DR. BARBARA
DR. BARBARA

Ph.D. in History, Maser’s in Music

SSAT
MELISSA S.

Ph.D. Candidate in School Psychology, Master’s in Special Education

Craig Selinger’s Accomplishments

Craig Selinger, CEO and owner of Themba Tutors, brings over two decades of professional experience directly assisting students and families and overseeing our staff. He is a published author in esteemed journals and platforms, including the Journal of Brain Research, Momtastic, NYMetro Parents, Healthline, About.com, Psych Central, Tiny Beans, and ADHD Online. Craig has been featured in live interviews on WPIX 11 and Insider. He has delivered lectures at prestigious institutions such as Bard High School Early College (BHSEC), NYU Langone, Mount Sinai Hospital, and the Educational Alliance. He has also been a keynote speaker at events like the  Everyone Reading Conference and the New York City Parents’ Primer Round Table Discussion for Dyslexia. Craig’s leadership and significant contributions have established him as a recognized expert in education and executive function coaching.

With Themba Tutors, you can trust that your child, college student, or young professional will receive the best test preparation and tutoring services. Our steadfast commitment to excellence and personalized approach ensures we are the ideal choice for families seeking specialized support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the SSAT?

The SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test) is a standardized test used by many private and independent schools to assess students’ academic abilities when applying for grades 3 through 11. The SSAT measures math, reading, and verbal reasoning skills and provides schools with a common benchmark for comparing applicants.

The test is divided into three main sections:

  1. Quantitative (Math): Evaluates problem-solving skills in arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
  2. Verbal: Assesses vocabulary, verbal reasoning, and word relationships through synonyms and analogies.
  3. Reading Comprehension: Tests the ability to understand passages, identify main ideas, and make inferences.

In addition, the SSAT includes a writing sample, which is not scored but is sent to schools to assess a student’s writing ability.

What are the different levels of the SSAT?

The SSAT is offered at three levels based on grade:

  1. Elementary Level
    • Grades: Students in grades 3–4 applying to grades 4–5
    • Purpose: Measures foundational verbal, math, and reading skills
  2. Middle Level
    • Grades: Students in grades 5–7 applying to grades 6–8
    • Purpose: Evaluates intermediate math, verbal reasoning, and reading comprehension
  3. Upper Level
    • Grades: Students in grades 8–11 applying to grades 9–12
    • Purpose: Assesses readiness for advanced high school academics

Each SSAT level is designed to be developmentally appropriate for the student’s age and grade.

What is a good SSAT score?

A “good” SSAT score depends on the expectations of the schools a student is applying to. Score ranges vary by level:

  • Elementary Level: 900–1800
  • Middle Level: 1320–2130
  • Upper Level: 1500–2400

Schools also consider percentile rankings, which compare a student’s performance to peers in the same grade.

Can my child retake the SSAT?

Yes. The SSAT is offered multiple times each year, and students may take it more than once. Policies vary by school—some consider the highest score, while others review all scores submitted.

How long is the SSAT?

The SSAT lasts approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes, including breaks:

  • Writing Sample: 25 minutes
  • Quantitative (Math) Section 1: 30 minutes
  • Reading Comprehension: 40 minutes
  • Verbal Section: 30 minutes
  • Quantitative (Math) Section 2: 30 minutes
  • Experimental Section: 15 minutes (unscored)
  • Breaks: One 10-minute break and one 5-minute break

The total testing time does not include instructions.

How do I register for the SSAT?

  1. Create an Account: Visit the official SSAT website and create an account.
  2. Choose a Test Date and Location: Select from available test dates and locations.
  3. Complete Registration: Enter student details and request accommodations if needed.
  4. Pay the Registration Fee: Fees vary by level and services selected.
  5. Receive Confirmation: A confirmation email will include test details and instructions.

Register early to secure preferred test centers and dates.

When should students take the SSAT?

Most students take the SSAT in the fall or early winter before the year they plan to enroll. Testing between September and December typically aligns with school application deadlines.

Where can students take the SSAT?

  1. Independent and Private Schools
  2. Prometric Test Centers
  3. SSAT at Home (Online Proctored)
  4. International Test Centers

Locations can be searched on the official SSAT website.

Can my child take the SSAT with accommodations?

Yes. Students with documented disabilities may qualify for accommodations such as extended time, additional breaks, or alternate formats, depending on individual needs.

How should a student prepare for the SSAT?

Preparation should include understanding the test format, completing practice exams, strengthening vocabulary and reading skills, and reviewing math concepts. Structured preparation helps identify gaps and build confidence.

Additionally, tutoring can play a crucial role in SSAT preparation. A SSAT tutor can provide personalized instruction tailored to the student’s strengths and weaknesses, helping to target areas that need improvement. Tutors can also teach test-taking strategies, offer practice with time management, and provide encouragement and accountability that can boost confidence and performance on test day. Themba Tutors provides free practice tests that students can complete at home, ensuring thorough preparation for the SSAT.

Not ready to fill out the form yet? We’re here to make this easy.

📞 (917) 382-8641 | 📲 (917) 382-8641 | ✉ [email protected]


Every coach offers a free 15-minute remote meet-and-greet, so you can get to know them and see if it feels like the right fit. We’re very responsive and easy to communicate with throughout the process. From there, we’ll thoughtfully match you with one or more of our coaches.