Our Story
Nora and Jim met in Madrid while working as English teachers, and quickly bonded over their love of literature, languages, art, and the most fulfilling job either had ever had: tutoring. That shared passion led them to launch Paper Airplane Tutoring in Madrid, where they began offering personalized support to students of all ages, across a broad subject area.
Since moving to Portland in 2017, they’ve continued the work they love. For the past eight years, Paper Airplane Tutoring has helped hundreds of students in Portland and beyond grow in skill, confidence, and curiosity. With their language specialties covered, Nora and Jim expanded their team to include Science and Technology specialist Michele Pillitteri and Elementary and Elementary expert & Virtual tutor Taylor Salle.
The Paper Airplane team is proud to bring years of experience, creativity, and genuine care to every session, and we look forward to working with you!
Meet the Tutors
Spanish - Writing - Literacy - History
Nora is the lead tutor at Paper Airplane Tutoring. She holds Bachelor's degrees in English and Spanish, and a Master’s in Secondary Education with a focus on Spanish instruction. Nora brings over a decade of experience teaching Spanish at all levels and guiding students in reading, writing, and academic literacy across the age spectrum.
- - - - -
Nora began her career as a writing tutor at the University of Missouri, supporting college students in academic research and composition. She later moved to Madrid, Spain, where she taught English and tutored students ages 3 to adult, designing individualized curricula to support their growth.
In the classroom, Nora has taught World Language Spanish (levels 1 through AP), academic writing, and literature in both English and Spanish. She excels in teaching secondary academic writing and literacy, while also providing expert tutoring in elementary reading, writing, and math. Nora has extensive experience working with students with different learning needs, offering patient, targeted support that meets each learner where they are.
Nora is committed to delivering high-quality, individualized instruction that builds confidence, competence, and a love of learning.
Nora Salle
ELL - Meditation - Writing - Counseling
Jim was born and raised in Seattle. He attended Seattle University, where he majored in graphic design and worked as a writing tutor all four years of college. Jim’s combined study of graphic design and writing make him an adept communicator through words, visuals, and even paper airplanes.
- - - - -
As a writing tutor, Jim worked with hundreds of undergraduate and graduate students, many of whom were non-native speakers of English. He helped each one become a more confident, successful student. Jim believes relationship building is the heart of any tutoring. He enjoys getting to know his students and adapting assignments to their goals and interests.
After Seattle U, Jim moved to Madrid for a couple years and honed his skills as an English language teacher and freelance tutor. Working with children from kindergarten to high school, he got better yet at tailoring lesson plans to suit his students’ school curriculum.
Jim also spent time in Austin, Texas, serving as a literacy tutor for students who were below grade level in reading. Jim is currently living in Portland, where he works in social services. He likewise looks forward to working with your child and helping them become a confident and successful student for years to come. :-)
Jim McGowan
Taylor Salle
Science of Reading - Math - Virtual Scholars
Taylor holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Missouri–Kansas City and brings over a decade of experience in student-centered education. She serves as Paper Airplane Tutoring’s Elementary Curriculum Consultant and Virtual Tutor, specializing in the Science of Reading and math instruction.
- - - - -
Taylor currently works as an interventionist coach and curriculum developer at a charter academy in Kansas City. She also teaches education and educational philosophy at UMKC, where she helps shape future educators. She is LETRS trained, holds Orton-Gillingham accreditation, and was nominated for Missouri Teacher of the Year for her outstanding commitment to inclusive, innovative teaching.
Taylor is proud to be part of a learning community that values mindfulness, creativity, and student voice. Outside of teaching, she’s an artist, writer, and music lover.
Through virtual tutoring, Taylor brings warmth, expertise, and creativity to every session. With Taylor, your student will receive compassionate, research-backed instruction tailored to their unique needs and learning style.
Michele Pillitteri
Science & Enrichment
Michele holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Rowan University, where he developed his signature first-principles approach to learning. He believes true understanding starts with a solid foundation—by breaking complex ideas down to their roots, students can build lasting knowledge and confidence.
- - - - -
With a strong background in the sciences, Michele tutors in physical science, biology, and physics, and stays current on the latest scientific discoveries. He also has professional experience repairing electronics and teaches community classes on safe, at-home electrical work.
Michele is a longtime sourdough baker and fermentation enthusiast who offers workshops that blend culinary arts with science. A passionate musician, he also tutors beginner and intermediate guitar students.
Whether you or your student wants to understand electricity, biology, or bar chords, Michele brings clarity, curiosity, and hands-on experience to every session.