Our Tutors
Michael Gelfeld
Founder, Mathematics and Science Tutor
Michael grew up in the Washington D.C. area in Takoma Park, MD. He was fortunate to attend Montgomery County Public Schools where he received an excellent education, propelling him to attend Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA. He graduated from ODU in 2015 with a degree in Applied Mathematics, Summa Cum Laude. While still in college, he began his career in math education as a tutor working for the university. Upon graduating, his life took him in a direction of travel, adventure, and inward self-discovery. This brought him to Flagstaff in 2020, which he is now proud to call his home. Michael founded Einstein Tutoring in 2021, with the mission of serving the community and improving as many students’ education as possible.
Tessa Richardson
Mathematics and Physics Tutor
Tessa grew up in Pennsylvania, and has lived in Texas and Germany before coming to Arizona and studying at NAU. Tessa is graduating in Spring 2025 with an interdisciplinary Bachelor's in Mathematics and Physics and a minor in Classics. She has completed research internships for NASA and Lowell Observatory studying the behaviour of Centaurs in the outer solar system. She cares deeply for the success and wellbeing of each student she mentors, always fostering a joy in the beauty of mathematics. Tessa is a dedicated bookworm with a soft spot for both science fiction and classic English Literature. She has lived in Flagstaff since 2017 and enjoys visiting national parks with her son.
Christopher Contreras
Mathematics and Physics Tutor
Christopher is a Flagstaff local, a 2018 graduate from the AP Academy at Flagstaff High School, and a 2024 graduate from NAU with a bachelor’s in physics and a minor in mathematics. Chris has many interests in science including quantum technologies, nuclear physics and general relativity. Recognizing that math is a subject many students struggle with, Chris has grown a passion for working with students to make math more accessible by dedicating himself to the success of his students. Outside the classroom Chris has gained leadership experience as an outdoor guide for scouts and teen camps. He has a passion for being in the mountains climbing, running, or just taking the energy nature offers.
Dillon Riggs
Mathematics, Chemistry and Physics Tutor
Dillon was born in Colorado and lived in Phoenix for many years before moving to Flagstaff in 2020 to attend Northern Arizona University. He graduated with dual bachelor’s degrees in physics and chemistry and is now pursuing a PhD in Applied Physics and Material Science at NAU. Dillon is actively involved in outreach through the ¡MIRA! Center, where he teaches quantum science to kids and develops cost-effective demonstrations to make quantum education more accessible. An avid outdoor enthusiast, Dillon enjoys hiking, biking, and climbing in Northern Arizona's stunning landscapes. When not exploring the outdoors, he’s immersed in DnD, blending his love for storytelling and strategy with his scientific mindset.
Abby Prynn
English and Language Arts Tutor
Abby grew up in Northern California before moving to Flagstaff to attend NAU in 2016. She graduated in 2020 with a double major in Special Education and Elementary Education. She has since worked at Mount Elden Middle School as a Special Education teacher. As someone who has dealt with the struggles of learning with ADHD, Abby acquired a passion for teaching students different strategies geared towards their personal strengths. She believes every student is smart in their own, unique way! Together she works with students to discover these strengths and foster those to enhance their learning. Whether it’s drawing, taking photos, or solving Rubik’s cubes, Abby enjoys staying busy and active.