Focused on building a rapport with her students, Helen Sim Ritenour has been an educator for 20 years. She specializes in English and History and got her BA from Wheaton College with a major in European History and a minor in Religion and Philosophy. She holds a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential as well as a Masters in School Counseling. Her ability to connect with students enables her to quickly pinpoint their areas of need and her structured approach to teaching, coupled with her high expectations, has successfully brought out the best in students’ academics. Helen’s scaffolded approach allows her to meet students on their current level, wherever that may be, and to help them achieve their goals. She has traveled to over 34 countries and is an avid aficionado of culture and foods from all over the world. This global perspective informs her approach in shaping the younger generation to both think critically and to endow skills & mindsets that help students to confidently find their voice and broaden their understanding of the world at large. A mom to two younger boys herself, Helen has found that being a parent has sharpened and evolved her own perspective as a teacher.