Connections Academics: Supporting Students with Mom-Owned Expertise

At Friend of a Mom, we love to highlight mom-owned businesses that are making a difference in their communities. These businesses are fueled by passion, determination, and the unique perspective of motherhood. This week, we’re excited to introduce Connections Academics, a mom-founded tutoring and enrichment service designed to help students thrive with personalized academic support.

Connections Academics is offering exclusive discounts for the Friend of a Mom community! Use code FRIENDOFAMOM for 20% off one Little or Baby Book Club class, or mention Friend of a Mom for 50% off your first tutoring session.

Meet Anna Tewell: Educator, Mom, and Business Owner

Anna Tewell, a Chicago-based mom and former teacher, has always been passionate about education. With a background in elementary, high school, and intervention teaching, she knew she wanted to continue making an impact even after leaving the traditional classroom.

After moving to Chicago in 2021 for her husband’s job, she partnered with the founder of Connections Academics, Amanda Vaughn, to open the Chicago branch of the tutoring service. Now, she’s balancing running a business and raising her two-year-old, Quinn, in the heart of the city—all while helping students build confidence and academic success.

What is Connections Academics?

Originally founded in Cincinnati in 2013, Connections Academics has expanded to Chicago and St. Louis, maintaining its mission to provide high-quality, individualized academic support. The team primarily consists of licensed teachers, ensuring that students receive expert guidance tailored to their needs. From Pre-K to 12th grade, students receive in-home tutoring in all subject areas, boosting both their skills and confidence.

Beyond tutoring, Connections Academics partners with schools to offer engaging after-school enrichment programs like Writing and Book Clubs. For younger learners, Little Book Club offers interactive baby and toddler storytime sessions, complete with crafts, songs, and sensory activities—bringing books to life for families across the city.

Special Offer for Friend of a Mom Community

As a special treat, Connections Academics is offering exclusive discounts for the Friend of a Mom community! Use code FRIENDOFAMOM for 20% off one Little or Baby Book Club class, or mention Friend of a Mom for 50% off your first tutoring session.

📸 Follow along on Instagram: @connectionsacademics_chi

📍 Learn more or book a session: connectionsacademics.com/chicago

📧 Contact Anna: anna@connectionsacademics.com