Today we’d like to introduce you to Natasha Witherspoon.
Hi Natasha, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I began my journey in education with a strong belief that every student is capable of learning when instruction is intentional, responsive, and grounded in understanding. Early in my career, I worked in high impact school settings where I was often learning pedagogy while teaching it. Those experiences showed me that strong content knowledge alone is not enough. Students need educators who know how to meet them where they are and move them forward with purpose.
While working in these communities, I saw firsthand what was possible when high expectations were paired with meaningful support. Over time, many of my students achieved academic success and went on to pursue higher education. Watching students grow in confidence and expand their sense of what is possible continues to motivate my work.
Throughout my career, I have served in a range of roles, including prekindergarten teaching assistant, classroom teacher, high school math coach, and K through 8 math specialist. I have worked across elementary, middle, and high school settings, as well as at the district level. This breadth of experience allows me to see how early foundations connect to long term outcomes and informs how I support both students and educators.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey has not always been smooth. One ongoing challenge has been navigating the cyclical nature of academic support, particularly in private settings. When students begin to show improvement, families sometimes pause services, only to return later when gaps resurface. Rebuilding momentum after interruptions requires additional time, planning, and renewed trust.
Another challenge has been stepping into schools and classrooms midyear, when instructional routines, pacing, and student groupings are already established. Entering at that point requires quickly building relationships with teachers, understanding existing systems, and identifying opportunities for targeted support without disrupting instruction. Whether supporting pull out groups or collaborating with teachers, the work must happen within structures already in motion while still producing meaningful, accelerated outcomes for students.
Additionally, serving learners across a wide range of grade levels requires deep preparation and flexibility. No two students or classrooms have the same needs or entry points, which makes intentional planning and ongoing assessment essential.
Despite these challenges, each experience has strengthened my ability to adapt, plan strategically, and deliver results under real world conditions. They have reinforced the importance of collaboration, responsiveness, and sustaining high expectations even when circumstances are less than ideal.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Edspire Consulting LLC is an education focused organization dedicated to supporting students, families, and educators through intentional instruction, academic intervention, and coaching. Edspire began in 2018 with two students and a clear vision for providing responsive support rooted in strong instruction. Our work centers on helping learners build strong foundations, close skill gaps, and develop confidence in math and reading, as well as learning overall. Education is not just what we do. It is who we are.
I specialize in K through 8 math and reading instruction, intervention, and curriculum alignment, with a strong focus on hands on learning, visual models, and individualized support. I am known for breaking down complex concepts in ways that make learning accessible, meaningful, and engaging. My work also includes professional development and coaching for educators to strengthen instructional practices and student outcomes.
What sets my work apart is the balance between academic rigor and student well being. Learning should not feel overwhelming or discouraging. I focus on how students think while learning just as much as what they are learning. Confidence, consistency, and clarity are central to everything I do, whether I am working with a student, a family, or a school team.
One of the accomplishments I am most proud of involves a student who initially received Special Education services for at least half of the instructional day in both reading and math. Over the course of two and a half to three years, we worked consistently to strengthen foundational skills and rebuild confidence. That student has since exited Special Education services, maintained strong academic performance, and now performs above grade level with indicators of college readiness. Beyond academics, the experience transformed how the student viewed themselves as a learner and reinforced why this work matters so deeply to me.
My work goes beyond tutoring or instruction. It is about impact, growth, and possibility. My services are designed to support academic success while nurturing confident learners who feel empowered and capable. At its core, my brand is about creating meaningful change for students and families and helping learners believe in themselves again.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my favorite childhood memories comes from when I was in third or fourth grade and woke up to an unexpected snow day. While most children were excited simply to be home, I immediately created a school of my own. I moved my nightstand in front of my bed, turned it into a desk, and spent the day playing both the teacher and the student.
I completed worksheets, graded them, and then switched roles to explain where mistakes were made, just like my teacher did in class. Without realizing it at the time, I was mimicking the instructional routines and care I had experienced in the classroom. That day stayed with me and was one of the first moments I clearly remember seeing myself as an educator.
Looking back, that childhood play reflects the same passion I carry into my work today. Helping learners understand, grow, and feel confident in their abilities.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://edspireconsulting.com
- Instagram: @tspoon18
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EdspireConsulting/#
- Other: https://linktr.ee/edspireconsulting
