Interested in learning Russian as a foreign, native, or heritage language? I can help!

Hi! I’m Elena, a Russian language teacher with 25+ years of experience. I hold a degree in philology and a PhD in linguistics.

Born and raised in Moscow, I lived, studied, and taught there until 2022. Now based in Orlando, Florida, I teach Russian as both a foreign and heritage language — working with kids and adults, online or in person.
Let’s get in touch!
What Makes Me Different
  • Trained to Teach Russian
    I graduated from Moscow State University with a degree in teaching Russian as a foreign language and continue to grow professionally.
  • 25+ Years of Experience
    I’ve taught at top Russian universities, in U.S. summer programs, and as a private tutor. I’ve lost track, but it’s safe to say over 1,000 students have been part of my classes along the way.
  • PhD in Linguistics
    My research in bilingualism and immigrant speech helps me understand the nuances of language learning — especially for heritage speakers.
Choose Your Path
and together we'll create a personalized learning plan.
Russian as a Foreign Language
If you're beginning—or continuing—your journey with Russian, you're in the right place! I've worked with students from around the world, each with their own goals: learning Russian for travel, career, academic purposes, exam prep, family communication, or simply for the joy of discovery. Whatever your reason, we’ll create a personalized learning plan tailored to you.

Whether you're starting with wide-eyed curiosity at the mysterious letters «Ж» and «Ъ», or already speaking fluently and aiming higher, I’ll help you reach your goals step by step, with language that’s alive, relevant, and real.
Russian as a Heritage Language
You grew up hearing Russian — maybe from a parent or grandparent — and it’s still the language of family, memories, and part of your identity. You understand a lot and can speak, but something’s missing: reading and writing are shaky, grammar is a mystery, and you’re not sure how to move forward. Beginner courses feel too slow — you already know so many words and expressions. But advanced classes expect grammar training you never had. Cases? Participles? It’s all too much — or too soon. Don’t worry — there’s a path made just for you.

Heritage learners have a unique set of strengths and challenges. My job is to help you turn early exposure into a real advantage — for school, for career, or simply for your pride and pleasure. This is not a generic language course. It’s a space where your background matters. We’ll build a personal program that respects where you’re coming from — and helps you move forward.
Russian for Bilingual Kids
You may be here because there’s a little person in your life — your child, grandchild, niece, or a family friend — who speaks or understands Russian from early childhood but lives in a country where another language is dominant. You want to keep the language alive and give them the gift of bilingualism — while their mind and heart are still open to learning.

Every child is unique, and so is our approach. Lessons are playful, engaging, and tailored to their age, level, and interests. These lessons are designed to help:
  • Speak Russian more freely, confidently, and with joy
  • Learn to read and write in Russian
  • Grow vocabulary through games, songs, and stories
  • Discover family roots and cultural heritage (if desired)
  • Stay curious and motivated to keep the language for life
Russian as a Native Language
I also work with children and teens for whom Russian is a native or near-native second language and who recently attended a Russian-speaking kindergarten or school. They speak it fluently and often know it better than the dominant language in their new country. These are children from immigrant families, relocated professionals, digital nomads, and even international families who spent years in a Russian-speaking country before returning home.

The goal of these lessons is to maintain and develop Russian skills according to each student’s age and interests, supporting their growth with the language. Each program is tailored individually, with goals and parental involvement discussed case by case. For example, it may be designed to help students with:
  • Strengthening grammar and writing
  • Expanding vocabulary and expression
  • Building clear, confident communication
  • Exploring Russian literature
  • Supporting academic success based on prior schooling
Why Choose My Lessons
  • Personalized Approach
    The communicative approach — widely recognized today — naturally builds on my commitment to personalized teaching. In my lessons, you’ll learn to use Russian not just in generic "real-life situations," but in situations that matter specifically to you.
  • Tailor-made Learning Materials
    I don’t rely on one-size-fits-all textbooks — instead, I design a personalized path based on your goals, interests, and learning style, and create a collection of materials just for you.
  • Real-Life, Modern Russian
    We’ll explore the language through topics that matter to you—news, authentic texts, videos, podcasts, TikToks, memes, and music. My goal is to help you make Russian your own — alive, clear, and truly useful in everyday life.
  • Confidence Through Communication
    You’ll start speaking from day one — not just repeating phrases, but expressing real thoughts in real contexts. And while I do love to talk, I’ll always make sure you’re the one speaking more.
  • Clarity and Fun
    Russian can be complex, but it doesn’t have to feel that way. I’ll guide you step by step, with clear explanations, games, and interactive tools. Whether you like playful tasks or logical systems, I’ve got you covered.
  • Flexible and Supportive
    I offer both online and in-person lessons, and I’m always just a message away if you have questions or need help. You’ll have the freedom to learn at your own pace — and we can always adjust the plan whenever your goals or interests shift.
Learning Materials
Learning materials are carefully selected to match each student’s individual needs. Sometimes we stick to one main textbook, but more often I mix exercises from different sources — printed books, digital tools, and my own materials.
Pricing

free consultation and testing (40 min)

Online, оne-on-оne, 60 min
$ 45
Children’s lessons

starting at $0 (pricing upon request)
in-Person in Orlando / mini-group / duo / intensive program / mentor-guided learning / Russian for kids / etc
Let’s discuss!
Lesson rates vary depending on duration, frequency, format (online or in-person), and location (for in-person lessons in Orlando, travel distance may affect the rate).
Discounts are available for prepaid packages.
Get in Touch
Have a question or want to start a free consultation?
Feel free to reach out in any way that’s convenient for you — just choose the one that works best:

  • Fill out the contact form
  • Send me an email:
  • Message me on Instagram or Telegram
I’ll get back to you within 1–2 business days
russianclass @ icloud.com
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