Community Highlights: Meet Tanesha Hayes of Hayes Primary Tutoring

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanesha Hayes.

Tanesha, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started my career as an elementary school teacher, working primarily with early readers in first and second grade. During that time, I began to notice that so many students were struggling with reading. It wasn’t because of their lack of ability but it was due to the pace. They were expected to master a skill with only a day or two before moving on to the next strategy. There was this underlying pressure to keep up, and if a child didn’t grasp something quickly, their energy shifts from eager to them feeling like they were behind. That really stayed with me. I knew many of those students just needed more time, a different approach, and a space where they could truly process what they were learning without being labeled. That’s what led me to start Hayes Primary Tutoring. I wanted to create an environment where I could meet students exactly where they are and allow them to learn and reflect on their skills at a quality pace. In my program, that shift changes everything. The focus moves away from ‘getting it fast’ to actually experiencing the learning process, building understanding, and gaining confidence. Over time, I developed my Bright Foundations Literacy Program to reflect that research-based instruction that’s tailored to each child. Now, I work closely with families and get to see real transformation. In reading ability and in how children feel about themselves as learners. That’s really what brought me to where I am today.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road. One of the biggest challenges was stepping away from the structure of the classroom and building something on my own. There’s a lot of uncertainty in that. Figuring out how to reach families, grow a business, and still stay true to the reason I started. Another challenge was shifting mindsets for myself and the families I work with. Many parents are used to the idea that if a child isn’t learning quickly, something is wrong. Helping them understand that learning at a steady pace is actually more effective took time and a lot of intentional communication.

We’ve been impressed with Hayes Primary Tutoring, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I’m the founder of Hayes Primary Tutoring, where I work with early elementary students. Primarily kindergarten through second grade to build strong academic foundations in both reading and math. I specialize in literacy, helping students strengthen phonics, fluency, and overall reading confidence, while also supporting foundational math skills like addition, subtraction and more.

What I’m known for is taking a very intentional, individualized approach. Every student begins with an assessment, and from there I build a targeted plan based on exactly what they need. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all learning in those early years when the foundation matters most.

One of the biggest things that sets my business apart is the environment I create. I focus on removing the pressure that a lot of children feel around learning in school. Instead of rushing through material, I allow students to truly experience the learning process at a more comfortable pace. That shift improves their academic skills and it also rebuilds their confidence. I’m especially proud of my Bright Foundations Literacy Program, which is a 12-week, research-based program designed to strengthen core reading skills in a structured and supportive way. It gives families clarity on where their child is and how they’re progressing over time.

I’m also really proud of the affordable learning activities and free parent guides I’ve created. I wanted to make sure that support doesn’t stop when a session ends. Those resources help parents turn everyday moments at home into meaningful learning experiences, so it becomes quality time!

At its core, my brand is about more than academics. It’s about helping children feel capable and helping families feel supported. I want parents to know that if their child is struggling, it doesn’t mean they’re behind. It simply means they need the right approach, the right support, and the space to learn in a way that works for them!

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
One of the things I really appreciate about Atlanta is the balance it offers. It’s a busy loud and city, but at the same time, you’re never too far from the quiet nature. You can take a short drive or go for a hike and find a sense of calm and peace, which I think is really special. What I like least would probably be the traffic! It’s one of those things that comes with a growing city, but it can definitely slow things down- especially when you take the wrong turn!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://HayesPrimary.com
• Instagram: hayesprimary
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095089747883