Our Story
Kiwoom Academy, located in Koreatown, Los Angeles, provides both in-person and online 1-on1 tutoring. Our educational philosophy respects each student’s individual learning characteristics and styles, allowing us to offer customized instruction for optimal educational outcomes. Our tutors set lesson goals and class routines tailored to each student through thorough assessments and consultations. We track progress through regular evaluations and maintain close communication with parents, ensuring families can observe their child’s growth firsthand.
About Lucy Kim
Lucy Kim, also known by her Korean name, Hyeyoung Kim, is the Founder of Kiwoom Academy and holds a Ph.D. in Human Development and Psychology (HDP) from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
She holds a Master’s degree in Education from Seoul National University and has extensive experience in the field of education, having worked for five years in public schools in Seoul, South Korea. Lucy is now a first-generation immigrant residing in Los Angeles.
Through Kiwoom Academy, Lucy aims to actualize her educational philosophy that emphasizes the unique developmental pace of each child and the importance of supporting their growth to reach their full potential. She is committed to making learning a joyful and developmental experience, particularly for children from culturally diverse backgrounds, and advocates for an educational approach that celebrates strengths rather than focusing on deficits.
A core principle of Kiwoom Academy is the importance of effective communication with parents.
The Academy is dedicated to providing timely feedback on students’ progress and encourages teachers to engage actively with parents, ensuring that this dialogue is reflected in their interactions with students.
As the founder of Kiwoom Academy, Lucy is a dedicated qualitative researcher with a Ph.D. in Human Development and Psychology (HDP) from UCLA. Her research focuses on general education (or highly gifted education), special education, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), immigration, and neurodiversity.
Her scholarly contributions are reflected in several notable publications, including:
Publications
- Kim, H., An-Kim, S., Lee, H., & Dodds, R. (2023). The journey of autism diagnosis: Views and experiences of Korean American immigrant mothers. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.
- Kim, H., & Dodds, R. Disclosing the child’s disability: Perspectives of first-generation US immigrant Korean mothers. Disability & Society.
- Kim, J. H., Lee, J. H., Richardson, T., Lee, D., McMahon, B., Kim, H., & Sametz, R. (2021). Psychometric validation of adapted inventory of virtues and strengths. Rehabilitation Counseling Bulletin
- Kim, H., Kim, D., & Kim, J. H. (2020). Research on college professors’ perception of classroom disability support services in South Korea. Journal of Student Research.
Awards
- AERA Graduate Travel Award (2023) from the American Educational Research Association.
- OAR Graduate Research Grant (2023 – present) from The Organization for Autism Research (OAR).
- Summer Mentored Research Fellowship (2022) from the University of California, Los Angeles.
Make a Difference
Curious About Joining Kiwoom Academy’s Team?
We believe that one-on-one tutoring can be life-changing for students, and we’re always searching for tutors who share this passion.
Create engaging, varied and
customized lessons
We value excellence. If you meet these criteria, apply to join our skilled community of tutors:
Have previous tutoring or teaching experience
Can demonstrate mastery of the subjects you want to tutor
Hold a degree or are currently enrolled at an accredited university
Are at least 18 years old
Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S
Are dedicated to successful learning outcomes
Send us a message!
Passionate about teaching? We’re always looking for new tutors to join our team. Send us a message with your resume if you’re interested in working with us!