"Every student can find success—it's just a matter of discovering the right key to unlock it."
Meet the Founder
Hello, my name is Ilana Green. Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here.
I am an experienced teacher, tutor, and educational advocate with over two decades of classroom and one-on-one teaching experience. Before moving to British Columbia in 2018, I spent nearly 20 years teaching in Ontario. While I have a deep love for algebra, literature, and science, my true passion lies in helping students master concepts through personalized, alternative approaches that standard classrooms don't always offer.
The Story Behind "Laughing Lion"
In 2018, seeking a fresh chapter, I relocated to Vancouver Island to trade long commutes for ocean breezes and mountain views. I moved with my younger daughter—whose name means "Lion"—while my older daughter, whose name brings laughter, graduated with her animation diploma and launched her career in Vancouver. Together, my daughters inspired the name Laughing Lion Learning Connections.
My journey into tutoring began years ago as a single mother when a thoughtful school secretary handed me a flyer from a family looking for math support. What started as extra income quickly transformed into my life's calling.
Working primarily with elementary students navigating ADHD and complex learning challenges, I realized how easily at-risk students slip through the cracks—and how overwhelmed parents feel trying to navigate the system.
My Teaching Philosophy & Approach
Over the years, I became the educator in my school who worked most closely with students on Individual Education Plans (IEPs). Through this work, I evolved from a teacher into a dedicated family advocate.
How I approach learning:
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Relationship-First Foundation: Real progress happens only after a student feels safe, understood, and supported.
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Modern Math Mindset: I prioritize mental math and conceptual understanding over rote algorithms. Using tools like multiplication charts or calculators isn't a failure—it’s smart scaffolding.
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Strengths-Based Advocacy: Standardized assessments only capture a fraction of who your child is. I look at the whole picture to uncover what formal reports miss.
Beyond the Classroom
When I’m not working with students or decoding school documentation, you can find me:
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Watching the mountain out my window and visiting my favourite beaches close to my home.
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Listening to podcasts and taking courses on how to better teach students with dyslexia, dysgraphia and dyscalculia
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Figuring out the UnSub
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Enjoying the journey, learning to be grateful
My life in pictures
