EMPOWERING STUDENTS
Krista Irish
Academic Tutor • Test Prep Expert • IEC
MEET KRISTA
For over 20 years, I’ve helped teenagers build the skills, routines, and confidence they need to unlock their potential—whether in school, on standardized tests, or in the college admissions process. I know firsthand how overwhelming these challenges can feel, and I believe that with personalized strategies and support, every student can gain the tools to thrive.
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I grew up in Montgomery County, Maryland, where I attended the Science, Mathematics, and Computer Science Magnet Program at Montgomery Blair High School before earning a Banneker/Key Scholarship to the University of Maryland, College Park. As both a scholar and a Division I athlete, I came to understand the power of consistency, adaptability, and resilience—values that shape how I work with students today.
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Before founding Krista Irish Consulting in 2019, I spent 12 years as Senior Program Director at MLS Educational Consultants, taught SAT, ACT, and GRE prep at The Princeton Review, and coached diving at The George Washington University and the Montgomery Dive Club. Across these experiences, I saw firsthand how confidence and skill-building go hand in hand. I bring an enthusiastic coaching style to my academic work—helping students stay motivated, tackle challenges, and make tangible progress.
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At the heart of my approach is a respect for each student as an individual. I believe meaningful growth happens when students feel heard, supported, and truly understood. While high expectations are important, progress comes from helping students build trust in their abilities—step by step. I strive to help bridge the gap between where a student is now and where they want to be, with a plan that’s both structured and encouraging. I also focus on helping students develop self-reflection skills, so they can understand how they learn best, advocate for themselves, and gain lasting confidence.
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I’ve always been passionate about finding the best ways to support students and families. I hold a College Counseling Certificate from the University of California, San Diego, and a Parent to Parent Teacher certification from CHADD, which helps me assist families navigating ADHD. I also serve as a Board Member and past President of Washington Independent Services for Educational Resources (WISER), an organization that connects professionals dedicated to serving students with learning and accessibility needs.
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Every student is unique, and my approach reflects that. Whether your child needs help with test anxiety, study habits, or the college application process, I’m here to provide expert guidance with patience and encouragement. My goal is to empower students to pursue their aspirations with confidence.
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I’d love to connect and see how I can help!
SERVICES
Academic Tutoring. Test Prep. College Planning.
Krista works with students online through video conferencing platforms such as Zoom or Google Meet to strengthen skills, build confidence, and reduce anxiety. She also enjoys collaborating with parents and professionals to develop tutoring programs that meet students where they are and help them get to where they want to be.
ACADEMIC TUTORING
Unlock Academic Potential
Krista works closely with students to help them reach their full academic potential. Whether it's strengthening study skills, improving time management, mastering higher-level math, or boosting self-efficacy, Krista tailors her approach to each teenager's unique needs. With years of experience working with students facing academic challenges, Krista helps students develop beneficial strategies, habits, and mindsets to pursue their goals with confidence. Krista has a broad knowledge base and can tutor a variety of high school subjects.
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STANDARDIZED TEST PREP
Test-Taking Made Manageable
Every student can improve their test-taking skills! Krista designs personalized prep programs using official testing materials to ensure students practice with real exam content. By reviewing each student's learning profile, schedule, and score goals, she tailors a plan focused on skill mastery and strategic test-taking.​ A key part of the process is self-reflection through error-logging, which helps students track mistakes, understand their learning patterns, and refine their approach for future tests. This encourages confidence and growth, so students approach each exam with a clear, positive mindset.
COLLEGE PLANNING
Aspire and Achieve
The college application process can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it doesn't have to be. Krista works with students to help them identify their strengths & preferences, develop compelling application materials, and manage the process step-by-step. From brainstorming essay ideas to developing realistic task deadlines, Krista ensures students feel prepared and proud of the applications they submit. To get started, a complimentary consultation is available for parents to discuss services and determine fit. All sessions are billed at an hourly rate, and most students begin working with Krista during the summer before their senior year.
CONTACT KRISTA
Serving students in DC, Maryland, Virginia, and beyond.
301.233.8197