Kim M. Pasculli-Festa, B.S., Ed.M
Kim M. Pasculli-Festa, B.S., Ed.M., is a Harvard-educated educator, published writer, and founding partner of Veritas Essay Coaching, where she empowers students to find and amplify their authentic voices through storytelling. A first-generation college graduate, Kim has spent over three decades shaping the lives of students, beginning with her early work in Paterson Public Schools and extending to her current role as a middle school Language Arts teacher in Oakland, New Jersey. Her own journey—from a rough childhood in Hoboken, NJ, to studying abroad in Italy and earning her Ed.M. from Harvard Graduate School of Education—has fueled her lifelong passion for writing, journalism, and amplifying student voices.
Kim’s leadership style is defined by empathy, compassion, and attentive listening, which she brings to every professional endeavor. She has a unique ability to build bridges, foster collaboration, and maintain high standards of excellence. As a published author and certified AI educator, she emphasizes authentic storytelling, believing that a student’s lived experience is the key to meaningful expression. She is proud to have co-founded Veritas Essay Coaching, a nationally recognized essay coaching firm awarded Top Essay Coaching Provider by Education Insider in 2026, and has guided countless students—including former students—to find their voice and achieve success.
Beyond her work in education, Kim is an avid traveler, music lover, and lifelong learner with a passion for languages and cultural exploration, with Italy holding a special place in her heart. She has a history of entrepreneurship, from running a cookie business to launching her coaching company, and she actively supports causes including equity in education, cerebral palsy advocacy, and survivors of sexual abuse. Despite her petite stature, standing at just five feet, Kim is known for her high heels, vibrant energy, and unwavering dedication to helping students be seen, heard, and understood.
• Harvard University Graduate School of Education - Ed.M
• Top Essay Coaching Provider by Education Insider in 2026
• Cerebral Palsy
• Survivors of Sexual Abuse
• Equity in Education which are advocate for kids
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to trusting my instincts, learning from the incredible teachers I've had, listening to my own intuition, and maintaining a persistent, never-give-up attitude.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always have something for yourself—pursue the things you love so that you have clarity on what you want to do in the next chapter of your life.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is finding a balance between work, personal life, and rest.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are courage, a strong work ethic, passion for what I do, love for others, self-respect, and approaching everything with integrity and intention.