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.

Writing For Performance

From Struggling To Excelling—unlock Better Writing Performance Today

Writing for Performance featured image

High-level academic writing is not simply about grammar or expression. Writing for Performance is the ability to translate complex thinking into clear, structured, and persuasive arguments. For many capable students, the gap is not understanding—it is execution within a defined system. This approach is closely aligned with broader structured academic performance systems, where writing is treated as a core component of academic execution rather than an isolated skill.

 

In demanding NYC academic environments, Writing for Performance often determines grades across multiple subjects. Students may fully grasp concepts but lack a repeatable system for organizing and communicating ideas under pressure.

The Academic Challenge of High-Stakes Writing for Performance

Writing for Performance requires structured argumentation, evidence synthesis, and analytical clarity under academic pressure. As students move into advanced coursework, writing expectations shift significantly. Essays are no longer descriptive—they require interpretation, synthesis, and defensible arguments. Many NYC students encounter this shift in Writing for Performance during:

 

  • AP English and AP History coursework
  • Regents-based analytical writing assignments
  • Competitive private school essay expectations
  • Research papers requiring multiple source integration

 

Analytical writing becomes a primary method of evaluation. Strong writing directly impacts GPA, teacher perception, and academic placement.

Why Bright Students Experience Writing Output Gaps

Tutor helping student improve writing skills during private session

High-performing students often experience writing output gaps due to execution systems, not ability. Many high-performing students get stuck in the ideation phase. They generate strong insights but lack a system to translate those ideas into structured output. Common performance patterns include:

 

  • Lack of structured argument organization
  • Output without a defined logical framework
  • Inefficient drafting systems
  • Breakdown in multi-source synthesis
  • Misalignment between thinking quality and written output

 

This is not a comprehension issue. It is a systems issue. Without a repeatable Writing for Performance framework, students rely on inconsistent processes that break down under academic pressure.

The Academic Infrastructure Approach to Writing for Performance

Private tutoring session focused on writing and academic support

Writing for Performance is built through structured academic performance systems that convert complex thinking into consistent output. Writing for Performance is built through systems, not isolated corrections. The focus is on creating a repeatable process that students can apply across subjects and assignments. Core components of structured academic performance systems include:

 

Structural Outlining and Logical Mapping
Students learn how to map arguments before writing, ensuring clarity and direction from the start.

 

Evidence Synthesis Frameworks
Students develop methods for integrating multiple sources into cohesive arguments.

 

Iterative Drafting Systems
Writing becomes a staged process—outline, draft, refine—rather than a single overwhelming task.

 

Argument Development Models
Students learn how to construct claims, support them with evidence, and connect ideas logically.

 

These systems reduce execution friction and increase consistency in Writing for Performance. These systems naturally reinforce organization, planning, and clarity—core outcomes typically associated with executive function strategies, but developed through academic structure.

What the Writing for Performance Program Includes

Writing for Performance focuses on analytical reasoning, structured communication, and persuasive clarity within high-level academic systems. Analytical reasoning development for complex topics:

 

  • Structured essay architecture and argument design
  • Evidence integration and citation strategies
  • Persuasive writing frameworks for humanities subjects
  • Iterative drafting and revision systems
  • Time-efficient writing processes aligned with executive function strategies
  • Clarity and precision in written communication

 

The goal is not just improved writing—it is reliable academic execution across specialized subject tutoring environments.

TESTIMONIALS

My son got to a point in his writing where he just hit a wall with brainstorming. He needed some extra 1:1 time outside of school with someone who could handle the executive functions aspect, the anxiety piece, the extra time/silence my son sometimes needed, and the warmth and creativity that is his native space. Jake was beyond perfect. I just couldn’t have dreamt up a better fit. In addition, he documented his process and what was working with my son so that I have a collection of emails to look back on when I need reminders about how to help my son when he’s feeling stuck – which is now very seldom. If I had five thumbs, they’d all be up. So I’ll just say 5 stars! Thank you, Jakek, and thank you, Themba Tutors. (By the way, this was affordable, to boot.)

 

-Micaela B.     

Samantha was great! Samantha was always punctual, nice, and clear when she sent her message to my son during her sessions. It helped my son improve his writing skills and schoolwork and gain some confidence.
After each session, she explained how he was doing and his progress, which I appreciated.

 

-Kay L.

Jill does an amazing job. She is incredibly patient with my son, and he has made great progress with his writing.

 

-Lisa V.    

Stephen was an amazing tutor to my bristly middle schooler! He helped with his writing and high school application process and was a wonderful influence on him. We are so grateful for his help and would highly recommend him!

 

-Erica W.    

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.

Writing for Performance NYC
REBECCA S.

Master’s in Social Work, Bachelor’s in English Writing

BRIAN F.
BRIAN F.

M.S. in Education

Writing for Performance NYC
MARIA

M.S. in Bilingual, Childhood and Special Education & Ed.M in Language and Literacy

STEPHEN S.
STEPHEN S.

BA in English and History, MA in Teaching, MA in Liberal Studies

Writing for Performance NYC
JURGA

Special Education Teacher, Certified Orton-Gillingham Literacy Specialist

Who the Writing for Performance Program Is For

Writing for Performance is designed for students navigating rigorous academic environments who require optimized execution systems. This program is ideal for:

 

  • Students in competitive NYC public or private schools
  • Students experiencing misalignment between thinking quality and written output
  • Students preparing for AP-level or college-level humanities work
  • Students who struggle to organize and express complex ideas
  • Students aiming to improve performance across writing-heavy subjects

 

Many students seeking this support are already high-achieving but need structure to unlock consistent results.

When to Consider Writing for Performance Optimization

Families often consider Writing for Performance when strong thinking is not translating into measurable academic results. You may consider Writing for Performance optimization when.

 

  • Essay grades are inconsistent or lower than expected
  • Writing takes excessive time without clear results
  • Teachers note issues with organization or clarity
  • Coursework begins to demand more analytical writing
  • Students experience inefficiency within writing execution systems

 

Many NYC families begin Writing for Performance optimization during key academic transitions, such as entering high school or starting AP coursework.

Frequently Asked Questions About Writing for Performance

Teacher providing feedback on student writing assignment

When should a student start writing support?
Students benefit when writing begins to impact grades across subjects or when expectations shift toward analytical essays.

 

Is this focused on grammar correction?
No. Writing for Performance focuses on structure, argumentation, and clarity—not basic grammar.

 

How does this improve academic performance?
Clear writing improves grades in humanities, strengthens teacher evaluations, and supports success in advanced coursework.

 

Can strong students still benefit from writing support?
Yes. Many high-performing students need systems to translate their thinking into consistent written output.

Key Facts About Writing for Performance Systems

  • Analytical writing is a primary grading factor in many NYC academic environments.
  • Strong writing reflects structured thinking, not just language ability.
  • Students often struggle with execution, not comprehension.
  • Writing systems improve efficiency, clarity, and academic consistency.
  • Structured support is most effective during transitions to higher-level coursework.

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.