Our Tutors

Jim J

Teaching Style

I believe that the possibilities of learning are incredible, especially with understanding the tools of both teaching and learning whether that is textbooks, computers, or something else. It is important to ascertain how a student learns, and adjust to them. I’ve discovered in my teaching of children that it is critical to create a foundation of understanding then build upon it through repetition of the basic ideals while adding to what is already established. Children are amazingly open to new ideas, and take on new challenges with excitement, so it is my job as instructor to guide them in their journey. I also feel that early learning is fundamental to the way individuals learn later in life, so helping children learn how to overcome obstacles becomes a way of expanding their educational possibilities.

Experience Summary

Throughout my higher educational career, I’ve been driven to learn as much as possible to help satisfy my enormous curiosity. I have earned a bachelor degree in English Literature, and am currently a MFA candidate in the creative writing program at Arizona State University. As part of my graduate funding, I work as a teaching assistant. The program requires constant training, and I enjoy taking part in understanding the way students learn. In addition to teaching at the university, I work with the Office of Youth Preparation—teaching not only the craft of poetry, but helping 4th and 5th graders develop language skills necessary to do well in school. Although I primarily work with the study of English, I study Spanish and have become proficient with the use of the language.

Arthur A

Teaching Style

I try to cultivate a student's curiosity, and then provide the necessary tools for learning. If students are curious and driven to learn, their potential is limitless. My goal is to help students learn through discovery. I am patient, considerate, and respectful of each student.

Experience Summary

While studying for my BA in English (Emphasis in Literature), I worked for two years as a writing tutor at the Hagan Writing Center. Tutoring was offered as a free service for interested students. (For some students, it was required). I tutored students at all levels from pre-College Writing to senior level literature courses. I completed work for my degree at three different colleges and universities in the United States and England, and I feel that the different teaching and learning methods I have seen have prepared me to be a more effective English tutor.

Janette J

Teaching Style

I firmly believe in Howard Gardner's theory of Multiple Intelligences. Each and every child has the ability to excel, but the most gains can be made if a teacher is aware of each individual child's learning style. I always strive to find the way in which each child learns best and then develop my plan of action to deliver instruction in the way they will benefit most.

Experience Summary

As a graduate of the University of New Mexico I hold both a B.S in Elementary Education with an endorsement in Language Arts and a M.A in Elementary Education. I have been employed in the capacity of classroom teacher for the past 8 years. I have taught both Kindergarten and 3rd Grade. My endorsement area is language arts. I hold a level II K-8 teaching license.

Sharon S

Teaching Style

I enjoy working with young people and making an impact on their academic success. I don't know if I have a particular teaching style, but I believe that education is not a "one size fits all" proposition and good educators must adapt their style to fit the needs of their student which I strive for every time I meet a new student.

Experience Summary

Although I do not have a degree in Education, I have years of experience as a teaching assistant, teacher, tutor and curriculum designer. My experience mostly focuses on helping students improve their writing skills, but I also work with students with their reading comprehension since they go hand in hand. I have taught composition at the community college level which enables me to help students with papers at all levels from basic exposition to research methodology and citation format.

Miriam M

Teaching Style

I like to figure out whether a student learns best by words, diagrams and pictures, or analogy. I enjoy finding ways to simplify things and help someone else learn. In addition to all the teaching I've done at the graduate level, I've also helped my two children with homework when needed for the past 20 years.

Experience Summary

I have been teaching and doing research in chemistry, biology, and genetics for many years. I am an avid tutor and teacher for all sciences. As with all laboratory sciences I have written many research papers; therefore, I am confident I can also assist students with writing papers and essays.

Michelle M

Teaching Style

I value the learning styles of each individual student and regardless of subject matter, I emphasize developing study skills to enable the student to apply what he or she learns in every subject/course.

Experience Summary

In the last nine years, I have actively addressed the goals and available resources of diverse student populations. During college, I tutored through several organizations, including AVID, Hermanas Intimas, and the Ophelia Project. Later at San Francisco State University, I served as a Teaching Assistant for two semesters and two departments. Prior to these experiences, I have taught English, ESL, and EFL to native and non-native English speakers domestically as well as internationally. English was not my first language, and I use my own experiences with language and culture to communicate successfully with students from all backgrounds. Furthermore, I am very comfortable with online learning platforms as I have not only taken countless online courses but have also assisted professors in further developing and improving their online courses. I have experience with backend website support and have developed websites as well.

Farrah F

Teaching Style

I enjoy teaching and working with students. I now understand that all children learn on their own level and at their own pace. I am very easy going, but I insist that students do their homework and stay after school for extra help if they need it. I grade work off of understanding. It is not always finding the correct answer, but the process to get to the correct answer. I believe that a good teacher makes a good student and I strive to be that good teacher and student.

Experience Summary

I enjoyed tutoring while I was in college working in the math lab for three years. However, now that I have been actually teaching my very own students I have a better understanding of the basics of mathematics and I am a much better student myself.

Jahmel J

Teaching Style

My students never doubted my love for them. They know that I am a serious instructor who knows when it's time for laughter and play. I have been known to expect so much from my students. That's because I recognize each and every one of their abilities and capabilities. I believe children have the ability to soar if someone just tries to see their potential and allow them to reach it. My philosophy is quite simple...in my classroom I maintain firmness, fairness, and consistency. This philosophy has always worked extremely well in the classroom with my students and I. They know the role I play and what I expect, and likewise my students know what to expect of me. I believe as an instructor that I have the ability to make a remarkable change out of the lives of many, but if I can reach at least one student--then, I have done a job well done. My students can honestly say I am striving to make them successful, productive citizens of society. I expect nothing less!

Experience Summary

My experience as a teacher is varied. My first experience working with children started in 1997 as a tutor for the College Reach-Out Program (CROP) on Santa Fe Community College's campus. I maintained that position for three years until I went into the teaching profession. The moment I entered the field of education, I began substituting. I was offered my first assignment as a long-term substitute teaching Intensive Reading to 9th graders. Shortly after, my long-term position turned into a permanent position where I taught 9-12 graders intensive reading instruction. The following year I was appointed a Dean of Students at my high school. I have taught Exceptional Student Education to 9-12 graders, Advanced and Regular Language Arts and Reading to 7th graders. This past year I taught in Pinellas County as a 7th grade reading teacher. Each year I have taught in the public school system I have always facilitated or assisted with ELP tutoring programs or CROP.