About
I am a public school teacher with 20 plus years of experience in CA schools. In 2018 I decided to take early retirement to pursue my interest in writing children's literature and taking art classes. However, I remain an active tutor dedicating to helping children reach their academic potential. I love teaching children to read and write. I am very familiar with implementing common core standards for math (K-6) and English (K-12). I have a general education clear credential (K-6 all subjects) and an English credential (K-12). I also have a clear education specialist credential that authorizes me to work with students pre K-age 22 with mild-moderate academic challenges.
I am an independent English scholar and have presented original research at international literature conferences. I hold an MA in English literature from CA State University Long Beach. I have the experience you need to help your child become academically successful.
My credentials are available to check at the CA Commission on Teacher Credentialing: (copy and paste the link below into the search bar and then type my last and first name into the fields (Lappin / Lisa). Next click on my last name to see my current credentials.
https://educator.ctc.ca.gov/siebel/app/esales/enu?SWECmd=GotoView&SWEView=CTC+Public+Search+Query+View+Web&SWERF=1&SWEHo=&SWEBU=1&SWEApplet0=CTC+Public+Search+Query+Applet+Web&SWERowId0=1-2LI-1887
I enjoy seeing a child develop his/her confidence. It is an incredible joy to see a child learn to read. I have a bilginual credential and can teach reading in both English and Spanish. I use a variety of techniques to help students become literate in language and math including stories, visual aides, creating Powerpoint presentations together, using musical notes and drums to decode unknown words, prompts for creative writing, research guidance and more.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to have a free introductory session with a prospective new client for approximatley 20 minutes to determine his/her interests and goals. If hired, I then devote myself to the student for a 60 minute time period either in person or on-line.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I hold a general education clear credential (K-6) with a bilingual component (English/Spanish). I am qualified to teach English as a second language to students.
I have a clear Education Specialist Credential that has helped me to become a better educator. I am able to serve students with special needs from preschool through adulthood (mild-moderate).
I have an MA in English literature and hold a single subject clear credential (English). I have experrience writing and presenting original research at national and international literature conferences.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $50 per hour for on-line tutoring.
I will travel 5-7 miles to your home at a rate of $60 per hour.
How did you get started teaching?
It was always my life goal to teach and write. I pursued an English degree with an specialty in creative writing at CA State Univesity Long Beach. I then earned a teaching credential at the same institution. Later I earned an MA in English literature and became an independent scholar. Lastly, I earned a clear credential in Special Education (Education Specialist) at CA State University Fullerton.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students of all ages but primarily K-3 general education. I have experience in a mild-moderate SDC class for 4 years and have tutored students with special needs of all ages including adults.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I am fond of the 9 years I worked taking a student with autism out into the community to read literature together twice a week. He developed his social skills, academic and speech skills over the course of the time I worked with him.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would recommend that a student prepare any questions he or she might have about what they hope to learn and how they seek to improve their skills.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Students should think about their strengths and areas where they need to improve. They might want to share this with their new teacher so there is no miscommunication. This is especially important for older students and for parents of younger students. Clear expectations are important and a discussion of how these goals will be achieved.