We’re giving you a peek inside the classroom of one of Help Group’s exceptional teachers. We hope these spotlights help you better understand the care, personalized attention, and instructional expertise our educators bring, which are keys to ensuring each student’s success. 

Name: Phillipa Fernando
School: Summit View School
Years as Help Group Teacher: 4 years
Degrees: BS, Biology; MS, Special Education
Grade(s) Taught: Biology, AP Biology, Algebra 1 & 2, Middle School Science 

Did you know that whales once had feet that allowed them to walk on land or that polar bears were once brown? In Ms. Philippa Fernando’s classroom at Summit View School, it’s questions like these that spark curiosity and lively discussion. But beyond the fascinating content, what stands out most is the connection she builds with her students. Whether teaching Biology or Algebra, Ms. Fernando takes the time to understand each learner’s strengths and challenges, creating a foundation of trust that empowers students to take risks and engage fully. 

Her classroom comes to life through project-based learning, where students get the opportunity to lead their own scientific inquiries on a high-interest topic. From writing abstracts and forming hypotheses to conducting experiments and analyzing results, students explore topics that matter to them, like discovering which dog toys their pets prefer or examining how academic stress impacts their peers. This hands-on approach deepens understanding while building critical thinking, problem-solving, and confidence. 

Ms. Fernando’s impact reaches far beyond academics. By fostering curiosity, resilience, and independence, she creates an environment where students feel seen, supported, and capable, often in ways that quietly shape their growth long after the lesson ends.