Beth Hankoff
Beth Hankoff is an experienced educator and learning facilitator based in San Jose, California, with over three decades of dedication to student-centered education. As the founder and owner of Encourage Education Services, she specializes in providing inclusive, self-directed learning opportunities for homeschoolers, particularly in the areas of reading, writing, and handwriting. Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music and a teaching credential from San José State University, along with additional certifications in cross-cultural language acquisition and handwriting instruction. Over the years, she has cultivated a strong reputation for her personalized, relationship-driven approach to teaching.
Throughout her career, Beth has worked across a variety of educational settings, including public schools, alternative education programs, and homeschooling communities. She began her journey in traditional classrooms before transitioning into more progressive and individualized learning environments, where she could better support diverse learners. Since launching her own practice in 2017, she has built a thriving, referral-based business that consistently maintains a waitlist—an indicator of the trust families place in her work. Her expertise includes supporting neurodiverse learners, students with learning challenges, and second-language learners, using strategies grounded in self-determination theory and student engagement.
Beth’s educational philosophy centers on honoring each child’s unique path, emphasizing that learning is not about being “ahead” or “behind,” but about growth and personal goals. She is a strong advocate for inclusive education, student autonomy, and strength-based learning, encouraging children to explore their interests as a gateway to deeper understanding. In addition to her teaching work, she contributes to broader conversations in education through writing and advocacy, sharing insights on literacy, student well-being, and the importance of compassionate, individualized instruction.
• Teaching Credential
• Certificate for Teaching Second Language Students
• Certified Handwriting Specialist through Handwriting Without Tears
• Introduction to Self-Determination Theory: An approach to motivation, development and wellness
• Level 1 Certified Handwriting Specialist
• Crosscultural Language Acquisition and Development
• Clear Multiple Subject Credential
• California Institute of the Arts - BFA
• Advocator of the Month
• Vision Award
• Rights-Centric Education Network's Quality Assurance System
• VELA Founders Network
• AERO (Alternative Education Resource Organization)
• Parents Helping Parents (Parent Advocates Group)
• Lives in the Balance (California Lead for Advocacy)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to building my business independently and earning a strong reputation through word of mouth. Over nearly nine years, I’ve maintained a waitlist by focusing not just on academic results, but on each child’s individual needs and personality. I work gently with students, including those with special needs or learning a second language, to ensure they feel supported and develop a genuine appreciation for learning. This personalized, caring approach is what has made my business successful.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
If a young woman asked me about entering education, I’d start by exploring what age group and subject she’s interested in, because the path can look very different depending on that choice. I’d also consider her personality—if she thrives in structured, collaborative settings, a public or traditional private school might be a good fit. But if she’s independent and creative, she might consider starting her own tutoring business or offering classes for homeschoolers. Ultimately, my advice is to find the educational environment that aligns with both your interests and your personal strengths.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in education right now include systemic inequities, students “falling through the cracks” on foundational skills like handwriting and motor development, and the persistence of punitive practices in schools. At the same time, there are exciting opportunities through collaborative networks that promote rights-focused education, online partnerships, and stronger support systems for homeschoolers and alternative educators.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me revolve around children’s rights and personalized education. My own experiences in the Los Angeles Unified School District showed me how inequities can leave some students behind and others unchallenged, while personalized attention—like I experienced in a small private high school—can make a transformative difference. This inspired my work in homeschooling and supporting the homeschooling community, as well as my involvement with the Rights-Centric Education Network and Lives in the Balance, advocating against corporal punishment, seclusion, and restraint in schools. I’m deeply committed to fostering environments where children are respected, supported, and empowered to take responsibility for their own learning, and to collaborating with others who share these values.
Locations
Encourage Education Services
655 richmond ave #132, San Jose, CA 95128