Why Choose SparkED?
SparkED Coaches are:
Compassionate educators who bring our experiences as teachers, specialists, and parents to our coaching
Outside-the-box thinkers who tailor our approach to fit your needs and create “just right” personalized systems
Client-first coaches who place your goals front and center
Empowering cheerleaders who celebrate your successes and provide shame-free accountability
Strong advocates who champion your needs through thoughtful communication
Invested collaborators who believe in the power of teamwork and transparency
Meet Our Co-Founders
Deborah Costa
15+ Years in Education, Co-Founder
B.A. Boston College
Elementary Education & Math/Computer Science
M.A. Teachers College, Columbia University
Instructional Technology and Media
Deborah began her career as a third grade teacher and later led the technology program at a PreK-8th grade independent school. With the constant innovation of digital tools, Deborah enjoys discovering technologies that enable students to achieve their learning and creative goals. Deborah is currently working towards her ICF Life Coach certification specializing in supporting clients with ADHD. During her free time, Deborah enjoys exploring new places with her husband and daughter.
Jennifer Haakmat
25+ Years in Education, Co-Founder
B.A. Manhattanville College
English Literature
M.S. Bank Street College of Education
Middle School Special and General Education
Jennifer has worked with hundreds of students in grades K-12, both as a classroom teacher and as a Learning Specialist. She has worked in independent schools in both New York City and New Jersey. Over the course of her career, Jennifer has also acted as a diversity consultant and facilitator and spent a year in between in television as a set stylist. Jennifer is married and is a parent of a high schooler.
Meet Our Team
Michael Chodroff
20+ Years in Education
B.A. Rutgers College
Communication & Journalism
Post-Baccalaureate, Kean University
Elementary Education (N–8)
M.S. Ramapo College
Educational Technology
Michael has served in a range of educational settings, both public and private, where he taught all subjects with an emphasis on science and led curriculum design and faculty coaching for Grades 4–8. As a past board member of the Alliance for New Jersey Environmental Education (ANJEE), he helped modernize statewide programs that connect students with issues of sustainability and social impact. Most recently, Michael founded The Ripple Center, a regenerative leadership fellowship that empowers young changemakers through systems thinking and storytelling. He loves to travel and has visited all 50 states and more than 25 countries.
Delia Hernandez
35+ Years in Education
Ph.D. CUNY Graduate Center
Educational Psychology
M.Phil. CUNY Graduate Center
Educational Psychology
M.S. Bank Street College of Education
Reading & Literacy
B.A. St. Francis College
English, Specialization in Elementary Education
Delia has decades of experience as an elementary school teacher, reading specialist, educational director and assistant principal in independent schools in New York City. Throughout her career, she has also served as a tutor for students ages 6-17, educational coach and diversity facilitator. She is currently focused on mentoring preservice teachers and implementing research and best practices for neurodivergent learners. Delia is a life-long resident of Brooklyn, NY who enjoys yoga and wellness practices, as well as sharing adventures and all types of food with her sons.
Lauren Kronthal
10+ Years in Education
B.S. Georgetown University
Chemistry
Ed.M. Teachers College, Columbia University
Science Teacher Education
In her career as an educator, Lauren has worked as a middle school science teacher, K-8th grade science specialist, and executive function coach. She has taught in independent schools and public charter schools in New Jersey and Washington, DC. In her free time, Lauren enjoys reading, organizing, and exploring different neighborhoods in New York City, where she lives with her husband.
Joey Massa
10+ Years in Tutoring
Brown University, BA: Health and Human Biology and Theatre and Performance Studies
Joey has over ten years of tutoring experience and loves supporting students as they build effective routines and strengthen the executive functioning skills that help them succeed in school and beyond. Joey’s warm, structured approach encourages confidence, fosters productive habits, and helps each student find strategies that truly fit for them. Outside of work, Joey enjoys watching films, seeing theater, and spending time writing.
Tory Murphy
10+ Years in Education
B.A. Elon University
Early Childhood Education/Psychology
M.A. Teachers College, Columbia University
Sociology and Education
Tori enjoys supporting students of all ages in building strong executive function skills, helping them develop the confidence and strategies they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom. She currently teaches at an independent school in New York City. When Tori is not teaching, she enjoys seeing live performances, baking, and spending time with her friends and family.