About
I have a business and economics degree from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. My foundation in mathematics was developed in Singapore which is renowned for excellent mathematics education.
I have 12 years of experience as a math tutor assisting in the Pacifica School District as a volunteer math coach in elementary and middle school classrooms. This is where I realized how much I love helping kids grow into confident mathematicians. I am very familiar with the goals and standards of common core math and in particular the Bridges, Singapore Math, Big Idea Math, CPM curriculums.
One of my strengths is being patient with kids who struggle to grasp mathematical concepts by adapting my teaching methods to each child. My tool kit includes visual modeling, pattern recognition, and mathematical storytelling and communication. My goal is to build a solid conceptual understanding of math while training their minds to be flexible in problem-solving.
I believe in fostering a positive and affirming atmosphere so that kids feel comfortable asking questions and discovering their own potential to think mathematically.
For mathematically gifted students who are looking to explore mathematics beyond their school classroom, I love stoking their love for math through math investigations to seeing how math is everywhere in the world around them.
I love finding different ways to help my students understand a concept that they are struggling to understand. It engages my creativity and ability to communicate in many different ways - pictures, words, numbers, even movement, and rhythm.
Seeing kids become confident in using their newfound mathematical powers gets me excited.
Specialties
Grade level
Type of math
Reviews
paula M.
Catherine D.
Michelle R.
Djenane S.
Ana A.
Erika M.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first two lessons, I will spend assessing where the student is for their grade level and build rapport and confidence.
Next, I will meet with the student's parents to discuss a plan and set some goals about what we want to accomplish during our tutoring sessions and find a regular time to meet.
I check-in with parents every few weeks for a few minutes to give parents an update on what progress we are making, discuss recommendations for supporting their students, and setting new goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have volunteered as a math coach for 12 years at Ocean Shore School in the Pacifica School District working at all grade levels from K-8th grade with students in the classroom, in small groups, and one on one.
I have a Bachelor of Science in Economics from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
I was educated in Singapore which is famous for it's vigorous and excellent mathematics education.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$95/hour for one-on-one
$150/hour for two students
High School$120/hour for one-on-one
How did you get started teaching?
I started volunteering as a math aid at Ocean Shore School because my kids loved math and I wanted to keep them engaged and curious about math. Some years, I worked more with advanced students, other years, I worked with students who were struggling and needed one on one support.
Then some fellow parents asked if I would tutor their middle school students to provide math homework support. I enjoyed it so much that I have continued to tutor students K-10th grade students ever since.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've taught students from K-10th grade (Algebra and Geometry).
I've had experience working with students with neurological challenges and others with attention challenges that make big group learning a difficult.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Being good at math is different from being good at teaching math. A good math teacher is one who can communicate well with the student and builds confidence as students engage in productive struggle. Look for a teacher who focuses on building strong concept understanding, skills for clearly articulating mathematical thinking, and provides students with a variety of tools for problem solving.