Today we’d like to introduce you to Ellen Ross.
Hi Ellen, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am currently a high school math teacher with over 20 years of experience, and I genuinely love what I do. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a wide range of students and learning environments including: regular education, exceptional education, alternative education in both middle and high school classrooms across multiple districts in North Carolina. I hold a B.S. in Mathematics and a Master of Arts in Teaching (Secondary Education), both of which have shaped my instructional approach and the way I support student learning.
When COVID-19 hit, schools and education faced unprecedented challenges. Students were suddenly learning remotely, many struggled to stay engaged, and learning gaps became more pronounced. During that time, I realized I wanted to support students in a deeper, more individualized way by helping them stay on track, rebuild confidence, and navigate a completely new learning landscape.
This led me to create EMS Tutoring. As the founder, I am passionate about helping students reach their full academic potential. EMS Tutoring was built with a focus on mathematics, meeting students where they are and helping them grow with confidence. Over time, our services have expanded to support K–12 students across a wide range of needs, including ACT, SAT, ASVAB, and all state testing preparation across North Carolina. The goal has always been the same: build competence, build confidence, and ensure every student feels capable of success.
Today, I am working to establish a brick-and-mortar location to expand services and create jobs while continuing to guide students in their educational journeys. Founding EMS Tutoring has allowed me to combine my love for teaching with my commitment to service. It is truly an honor to support students as they grow academically and discover their capabilities. I look forward to partnering with each family and becoming a meaningful part of their child’s growth.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I would say the journey has been mostly smooth, but like any meaningful endeavor, it has come with challenges. Building my business from the ground up while still teaching full-time has required strong time management skills and a willingness to learn as I go. I currently handle everything from bookkeeping and scheduling to providing the tutoring services which has pushed me to become more organized, efficient, and resourceful.
Funding has also been a challenge, especially as I work to offer programs that truly meet students’ needs. But each obstacle has motivated me to think creatively, refine my systems, and stay focused on the bigger picture. These experiences have strengthened my resilience and reminded me why I started: to make a positive impact on students’ lives. Every challenge has ultimately become an opportunity to grow.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At EMS Tutoring, our vision is to empower every student to reach their fullest academic and personal potential. We strive to create a supportive learning environment where students feel confident embracing challenges and view them as stepping-stones toward growth. We envision a future where every learner gains the skills, resilience, and mindset needed to grow academically.
The mission of EMS Tutoring is to meet students where they are and guide them forward with compassion, patience, and purpose. We are committed to providing high-quality, student-centered instruction that encourages learners to feel comfortable tackling challenges and using those moments to spark growth in all areas of their lives. By nurturing academic skills, building confidence, and promoting resilience, EMS Tutoring helps students grow not only as learners but also as future leaders. Through authentic relationships, consistent support, and a genuine passion for service, we strive to help students realize everything they can become.
I am most proud of the impact I have been able to make through EMS Tutoring and my ability to serve students in this capacity. Many students come to me believing they “aren’t good at math” or carrying limiting beliefs they’ve heard from others. Watching these students gain understanding, build confidence, and achieve academic success is incredibly rewarding. I take pride in creating personalized learning experiences that help students grow not only academically but in themselves.
What sets EMS Tutoring apart is my passion, drive, and commitment to meet every student where they are and move them forward. I have a genuine gift for serving students and fostering growth at every level. I believe every student has the ability to grow in ways they may not initially believe possible, and when a student experiences that “I can do this” moment, it often has a lasting impact on their academic journey and beyond.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
Some of my favorite childhood memories revolve around spending time with family and friends. I loved being outdoors, playing sports like baseball, kickball, and basketball, I was definitely pretty athletic. Holidays were always special, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas. I can still remember spending entire days in the kitchen with my mom, making sweet potato pies and sneaking tastes of the batter whenever I could.
Looking back, most of my fondest memories were centered around people whether they were impacting my life or I was impacting theirs. Traveling to Maryland to visit family is another cherished memory. Those long car rides were filled with talking, laughing, joking, and playing games, and they became moments of connection I didn’t fully appreciate at the time. The experiences and people woven throughout my childhood were quietly planting seeds within me, shaping my values, strengthening my character, and nurturing the heart for service that guides me today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.emstutoring.net
- Other: https://share.google/1B9hY3Vs2bOQz7NbY
