Compass Academics
Helping Students Chart their Course
One on one academic coaching and subject specific tutoring for elementary through high school students. Personalized support that helps students feel confident, organized, and ready to tackle their schoolwork with less stress.
At Compass Academics, the goal is simple: ensuring that students feel capable, confident, and supported so they can navigate school with more ease.
About
At Compass Academics, our mission is simple: to help students discover clarity, confidence, and direction in their academic journeys. We support learners from elementary through high school, with personalized coaching designed to meet them exactly where they are.
For younger students, we focus on foundational skills—reading and writing fluency, grammar, math fundamentals, and early study habits that set the stage for long-term success. For older students, we offer subject-specific tutoring, executive function coaching, and college pathway guidance tailored to their goals.
Through one-on-one coaching, thoughtful mentorship, and practical strategies, students build independence, strengthen self-advocacy, and chart a path forward with confidence.
Think of your child’s tutor as a true partner on your team, someone fully invested in their success, cheering them on every step of the way, and taking some of that day-to-day academic pressure off your shoulders as a parent.
Meet Julia Shealy
Owner and Founder
With over twenty years of teaching experience, Julia shifted in 2023 from full-time classroom work to focus on subject tutoring and academic/executive functioning coaching. She approaches each student as an individual with distinct learning styles and strengths, helping them address academic challenges, set goals, prioritize tasks, and build the confidence to advocate for themselves.
Julia holds a B.A. in French and teaching certification from Davidson College, as well as a Master’s and ABD in Romance Languages from the University of Georgia. Her teaching background spans public and private schools, university-level instruction, and work abroad. She began her first tutoring business in high school, where she discovered her passion for teaching and supporting young people.
Julia lives in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, with her husband, their labradoodle, and Maine Coon cat, while her two sons attend Clemson. In her spare time, she enjoys good food, reading, travel, art, and photography.
Services to Help You Chart Your Course
✔ Academic coaching & subject tutoring (elementary through high school)
✔ Foundational skill building for younger students — reading, writing, grammar, and core math practice
✔ Study skills & executive function support
✔ Essay planning, writing & editing
✔ Homework guidance & test preparation
✔ Goal setting and academic planning
✔ Communication & self-advocacy development
✔ College pathway advising (internships, summer programs, staying on track with applications)
How Sessions Work
Sessions are available both in-person (at the office on Fairmont Ave.) and online (virtually). Most sessions last 45–60 minutes.
A typical session includes:
➤ A brief check-in: how your week has been, what’s going well, and what’s feeling challenging
➤ Setting a clear, focused goal for our time together
➤ Diving into whatever feels most important or pressing right now
➤ Wrapping up with practical next steps and any goals or practices for the week ahead
Sessions take place at the same weekly time for consistency and momentum. We’ll keep that regular slot unless something unexpected comes up (life happens!). But please give ample notice to change appointment time.
Our Process
➤ During the first session, time is spent getting to know your child and learning about their personality, interests, strengths, and any challenges they might be facing. Parents will receive an intake form to share what they hope their child will gain from tutoring or coaching.
➤ After each session, a short email summary is sent outlining what was covered and what comes next.
➤ When applicable, tutor will share additional resources with parents (practice test, suggestions for study methods, etc.)
Rates and Billing
➤ 45-minute session: $95
➤ 60-minute session: $115
➤ Google Meet check-in (10-15 minutes): $30
Clients are billed at the end of the month or during the first week of the next month.
Cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice will be charged $50.
Payments can be made through Venmo, Zelle, or personal check.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sessions happen at a consistent weekly day and time. If something comes up, makeup sessions can be scheduled as long as it's not within the 24-hour cancellation window.
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Yes, virtual sessions are available for families who prefer that option or who live outside the Charleston area.
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Yes, parents receive a short email summary after each session so everyone stays in the loop.
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Compass Academics works with students from third grade through high school. Sessions are not offered for kindergarten through second grade at this time.
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Not yet, but group options are in the works.
Kind Words
★★★★★