Stephanie Puntillo is going against the wave of traditional learning methods to help each child master their milestones.

Stephanie Puntillo, founder and owner of Steph’s Study Stars, is on a mission to reshape educational support in her community. Launched in November 2020, the program initially aimed to provide individualized tutoring during the pandemic. “I always had a passion for education,” Puntillo stated, who emphasized her desire to help students beyond the traditional classroom setting.

Puntillo’s approach focuses on customized lesson plans tailored to each student’s learning style. “Every child learns differently and at their own pace,” she explained. This philosophy sets Steph’s Study Stars apart from conventional tutoring services, which often apply a one-size-fits-all method. As the program has evolved, it has expanded to include a home-school option.

“Our curriculum focuses on returning to the fundamentals of teaching,” she noted, emphasizing hands-on learning that fosters essential skills. “My overall goal is to continue breaking the stigma surrounding tutoring and to let families know that home- schooling is okay, too. Many families have been inspired by this, and they’re happy to have home-schooling available, where our teachers come to you. They can come to your home or the library — wherever is most comfortable.”

Parents have reacted positively to Puntillo’s methods, one of which is a no- homework approach. They were initially confused but ultimately impressed. “They were just, ‘Like, wow, this is fantastic!’” she shared, reflecting on their growing appreciation for the program’s personalized approach. With over 30 students currently enrolled, the demand for customized education is clear. More importantly, parents are starting to see staggering improvements in their children’s academic performance and social skills, which has become a growing concern for most parents of young children because of the COVID-19 quarantine.

Looking to the future, Puntillo aims to broaden Steph’s Study Stars reach. “I want to continue to grow and make that our number one priority,” she said, and is focusing on expanding services across Ontario and Canada. Her commitment to fostering confidence in children remains at the forefront of her mission. “We’re not here to get your child the A. We’re here to help your child build that confidence to get to where they want to be,” Puntillo emphasized, encapsulating her vision for a supportive and enriching educational experience. Puntillo is not just teaching subjects — she’s nurturing a generation of confident and inspired learners prepared for future challenges no matter where their educational or professional paths take them.

647-632-2011
www.stephsstudystars.com