Meet Sarah Katrina Maruani | Founder and Chief Growth Officer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sarah Katrina Maruani and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sarah Katrina, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The ability to teach children or anyone to read is an invaluable gift—one that resonates deeply within me. This belief has been the cornerstone of my decisions over the past two decades. As my career evolved, I encountered numerous students facing challenges in reading, prompting reflections on my own struggles as a student. With my Family’s native language as my first, school felt like a hazy experience, with memories of being in and out of classrooms from Kindergarten to 5th grade leaving me feeling alienated and uncertain.

Transitioning into a classroom teacher role, I provided extra support to many students after school. However, I soon realized that the progress made in those sessions didn’t seamlessly transfer to the classroom. Driven by my passion for fostering growth and sharing the gift of reading, I began searching for effective ways to extend this gift to others. Colleagues frequently inquired about my students’ rapid improvement, seeking the “secret” method.

Over the course of my career, numerous individuals, including my former boss—the CEO of the non-profit I was a part of—provided encouraging support. They enlightened me on the significance of developing tools, resources, programs, and training for educators, organizations, parents, and more.

The need for tools, structure, training, resources, educational games, worksheets, and a mentoring program motivated me to form Kids on the Yard.

Since 2014, our primary focus:
1. Our core mission has centered on care! Recognizing the essential need for care, especially when children are in need of reading support, is paramount.
2. Establishing educational programs to share the KOTY method with a diverse range of educators
3. Implement a training or coaching initiative designed for academic and social-emotional learning.
4. Experiencing triumph! Yes, we stand by our claim of a 100% success rate within 12-18 weeks, covering Pre-4 to College.
5. Ignite the Scholar Within with our commitment to making services and products affordable!

Kids on the Yard was created with the purpose of gifting individuals the enduring skill of reading. The ability to read is a cornerstone for overcoming challenges and realizing life aspirations. After mastering these fundamental reading skills, the next objective is to empower others to embark on a journey toward emotional, physical, and spiritual wellness, positively impacting themselves and the world.

Presently, we join forces with parents, schools, and non-profits to provide tailored learning solutions, aspiring to expand our physical footprint across the USA. This initiative addresses learning gaps, boosts confidence, supports homework, and enhances grades through personalized one-on-one live learning.

What should our readers know about your business?
Kids on the Yard wasn’t an instantaneous achievement; it unfolded gradually over a journey spanning more than two decades. Without substantial financial backing or investors, the venture was driven by heartfelt dedication and a commitment to fill a void in the market. Despite the challenges, we are grateful to have established an organization and products that resonate deeply with many families. Our brand story is simple yet powerful: certain core skills are essential for a truly enriching life; among them, reading is a fundamental pillar. It is the gateway to thriving and unlocking one’s full potential.

Presently, Kids on the Yard has a global reach, with certified teachers spanning over 32 states in the United States. Our comprehensive learning solutions aim to enhance children’s skills while fostering confidence, motivation, and resilience. Additionally, we provide various educational programs, including academic tutoring, kids’ SEL life coaching, shadow teacher support, special education, and services for schools and districts. Our organization actively collaborates with Homeschool Programs, Charter Schools, Private Schools, Public Schools, and districts nationwide.

Embarking on an educational journey with us unveils many distinctive factors that truly set us apart from the crowd. The unparalleled success and progress of our students can be attributed to three fundamental pillars, each meticulously crafted to ensure an unparalleled learning experience:

* Expert-Driven Learning: Our certified educators, backed by senior mentors, bring a wealth of classroom experience for superior educational support.
* Adaptive Learning Solutions: Weekly reviews ensure tailored adjustments to each student’s program, meeting their pace and exceeding goals.
* Personalized Connection: Diverging from marketplace models, we engage directly with students and families, delivering a distinct, employee-based experience.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My idea of an ideal extended weekend involves a tech-free retreat near the sandy beaches of Mabliu. Surrounded by good food, refreshing hikes, and the warmth of Family and friends, the agenda is simple – a carefree weekend filled with togetherness and fun, guided by a loosely defined list of activities. Opting for a rental home along PCH ensures everyone stays together, with shared grocery shopping for daytime meals, making communal cooking an enjoyable affair. Evenings are reserved for culinary explorations, either at the upscale Nobu or exploring quaint fish restaurants through leisurely drives.

Enjoy the daytime with:

* Horseback riding adventures in the Santa Monica mountains.
* Exploration of scenic hiking trails.
* Relaxation on the sandy beaches.
* Leisurely strolls along the shore.
* Appreciation of the captivating sunsets.

Evenings are enriched by post-dinner game nights, the open window inviting the refreshing ocean breeze and providing a serene backdrop for engaging conversations—an idyllic LA weekend.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Along the path of my journey, various mentors have made significant contributions to shaping my life. While extending gratitude to each of them would be extensive, I want to specifically acknowledge a few key mentors.

The journey of a first-generation American unfolds with a unique relationship with parents adapting and flourishing in a new land. Witnessing my parents work diligently seven days a week throughout my entire childhood was a truly impactful experience. Navigating life alongside my brother Johnny fostered a strong bond, and despite a modest upbringing, I never sensed a financial scarcity as a child.

Two educators left a profound impact on my academic journey: Mrs. Mary Robison from Alameda Elementary School in Downey, CA, who supported my immigrant parents in addressing my academic challenges, and Ms. Debra J. Fletcher from the Student Disability office at CSUF, who not only served as a guiding light but also advocated for me as I pursued my college degrees. Ms. Fletcher played a pivotal role in identifying my learning disability and aiding me in thriving as a college student.

With steadfast support and encouragement from my husband, Kids on the Yard has journeyed beyond expectations. His inspiration propels us to embrace the unknown and confront fears daily. Recognizing that growth involves trial and error, I am grateful for my husband’s daily encouragement and business mentorship, fostering my personal and professional growth and connecting me with other influential mentors.

Finally, and certainly not of lesser importance, I express my gratitude to the incredible educational team of the past decade. Each collaboration with educators, assistance provided to families, and contribution to students’ growth has enabled us to collaboratively shape tools, resources, and programs for monitoring progress. It is an honor to work shoulder-to-shoulder with each member of this dedicated team.

Website: https://kidsontheyard.com/

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