MindSpark Education
About
I believe that learning should be fun and engaging. In many schools and classrooms, students spend much of their time working with material and instruction that is “flat” and uninspiring. When children encounter tasks that cater to their natural learning styles and provide opportunities for creative, original, and critical thought, they become masters of their learning rather than just bystanders in the process.
There is so much about teaching and tutoring that I enjoy! I love seeing children become engrossed in the learning that is going on. I love seeing them persevere through a subject that is difficult and emerge with new confidence. I love discovering the interests and quirks of my students and learning how they fit together to form them as people. I love being able to share my creativity and wonder with others.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
When I get a new student, I gather information before beginning a course of instruction. I ask the parents to explain the areas for improvement that they see in their child. Based on their response, I will administer a relevant placement test to determine specific topics to work on. I also like to get to know my students as people and will ask several interview-style questions to that end.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I received my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Central Florida, graduating with honors. I am certified by the state of Florida to teach students in Kindergarten - Sixth Grade. I have professional endorsements in ESOL (English Speakers of Other Languages), Reading, and Gifted Education.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
The standard rate for a lesson is $40 per hour.
How did you get started teaching?
As a freshman in college I was torn between pursuing Web Design and Elementary Education. After the first few education courses that I took, I fell in love with it. I enjoyed the creativity that could be exercised to make lessons engaging and meaningful. I loved working with kids and seeing their faces light up when they truly understood something or encoutered something that fascinated them.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked primarily with elementary aged students in mainstream classrooms. I have worked with students who recently immigrated to the country with no knowledge of the English language. I have worked with gifted students always looking for a new challenge. I have worked with students with ADD and ADHD. I have worked with students from various races and ethnicities. I believe that every child can learn and will learn given the right instruction and support.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find a teacher who is willing to challenge you and work with you to meet that challenge.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What strategies have I tried to meet this need?
What ways do I learn best?
What goals do I have for my education?