About
I have owned and operated two learning centers. The first was a major franchise -- 250 students -- for 15 years. The second I've had for 16 years -- Pinecone Learning. It is small and very focused on each student. Students thrive in my center and work quickly to get ahead of grade level. I provide the sequential learning materials for ages 3 yrs through high school. I have also private tutored for 30 years and offer on-line tutoring. My specialties are math, English, reading comp, grammar, writing.
I have created an online series of 35 booklets for fractions and pre-algebra each with their own whiteboard video to explain the particular concept in the book. Each concept is presented in a separate booklet with clear explanations and examples plus many pages of practice for mastery.
All kids learn a little differently. I've witnessed great transformations when they start to really understand what they are doing. It is a great motivator to tackle greater challenges. My job is to be sure each child gets this chance.
Photos and videos
Reviews
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to have a personal meeting (free) if possible to find out how I can best help. This is usually in my classroom, but could also be done online or phone. If it is for private tutoring, I like to see some past work, what the difficulties are, and what the expectations, needs, time-lines for results might be.
If it is for starting my Pinecone Math or Reading/Writing programs, I give a brief assessment to place the student at the right starting point.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a master's degree in Industrial/Org. Psychology with emphasis on statistics and research design. I have owned a couple of businesses including a major franchise learning center for 15 years with 250 students (several of whom stayed with me for up to 10 years) -- and Pinecone Learning for the last 10 years. I've developed curriculum also with clear explanations of concepts presented.
You can check my reviews on Yelp -- Pinecone Learning.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I typically charge $60 - $70 per one-hour session. However, I may include materials from Pinecone as needed, or suggest enrollment for a more affordable monthly fee. I may also suggest a combination of the two, or perhaps shorter sessions ($40 for 1/2 hour). This is why I like to first meet the student and assess needs. I want each student to become an independent learner and not need me!
How did you get started teaching?
I've always tutored -- but my first learning franchise was a great combination of my business skills, math foundation and love of kids.
What types of students have you worked with?
You name it! From gifted to all kinds of learning disabililties (FAS, ADHD, Autism, Aspberger's to name a few). I've had bright and eager, and bored and unmotivated. My youngest student was not quite 3 and oldest an adult -- with every age in between. I've also had lots of middle school kids that had to go back to earlier grade level material and catch back up. This is very common and it works.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I will be writing the story of Teddy. He is a high functioning autistic 8-year old who came to Pinecone over two years ago. He kept us quite busy but also quite entertained. After his first year he was able to leave special ed and join main stream classes. A couple of months ago he won best student in math and best student in spelling at his school. He is on his way.