About
I have 12 years experience as a former English teacher. I taught a variety of ELA courses to grades 7-12. I hold an M.F.A. in Creative Writing as well as an M.A. in English. I am passionate about helping learners express who they are through the processes of reading, analyzing, speaking and writing, and I believe in literacy as a tool for empowerment. When I help a learner with an ELA task, we work together to build confidence in their skill set and make the work they are doing personally meaningful.
AGES 12 and up
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Megan E.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
My preference is to work with learners on a specific assignment they have been given by their teacher. I will happily work alongside a student to complete work and will do my best to make it a rewarding experience, but I will not do it for them.
Firstly, I will need a description of the assignment and the due date. Secondly, I would like to hear from the student what they would like to achieve in the session. If they are not sure what they need or where to start, I can help them identify achievable goals and work toward them.
I am very skilled at the paper writing process, from start to finish, in nearly any subject matter and grade level, from middle school all the way to the college and graduate degree level.
I am supportive, positive, and encouraging and driven to help learners achieve their goals. I like to have fun and joke around while also staying focused on the task at hand.
I want my students to feel good about themselves after spending time working on their assignments with me.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Resume
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts in English Teacher Education, St. Ambrose University, Davenport, IA (2008)
Cumulative GPA: 3.9/4.0 Education GPA: 4.0/4.0 Honors: Summa cum laude
Endorsements: Grades 5-12, English Licenses: Iowa, Colorado
Master of Education in Teaching English, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA (2016)
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, Lindenwood University, St. Charles, MO (2019)
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
Language Arts Teacher
Secondary, Broomfield, CO 2017-2020
● Taught English 10, English 10 Honors, and English 12.
Language Arts Teacher
Urbandale, IA 2016-2017
● Taught Language & Literature (grade 10), Advanced Language & Literature (grade 10) and Creative Writing (grades 10-12).
● As a member of the district wellness team, collaborate with staff to research, design, and implement strategies for increasing wellness among students and staff.
Language Arts and Speech Teacher
Baxter, IA 2014-2016
● Taught English 11, English 10, Speech and Drama (grades 9-12), Literature 8, and Speech and Drama (grades 6-8)
● Coached students for Iowa High School State Speech Association district and state contests
Language Arts Teacher
DeWitt, IA 2008-2014
● Taught Expository Writing, Creative Writing, Contemporary Literature, Language Arts & Honors Language Arts 11, Language Arts 10, Language Arts 9 and Honors Language Arts 9
● Founded and oversaw a student writer’s group that met regularly for writer’s workshop; students participated in extracurricular activities and contests as well as organized similar literary activities within the school and community, such as a student publication, overnight writing camp, and Poetry Out Loud competition
STUDENT TEACHING EXPERIENCE
Davenport, IA January 2008-May 2008
Grade 7, Content Area: Language Arts
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$44/hr
How did you get started teaching?
I knew I wanted to become an English teacher in eleventh grade when my teacher enthusiastically taught the novel The Great Gatsby. I fell in love with language at a young age and always knew I wanted to be surrounded by poetry. One of the greatest joys in my life is connecting with people about ideas and art. I find the moments when I'm working with students one-on-one to be the most rewarding. I enjoy listening to and guiding students as they work through ideas and problems, and I live for the excitement of finally finding a solution and the process of coming up with a creative idea. I'm looking forward to getting to know you and growing with you!
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all kinds of students with different backgrounds, abilities and needs. I understand the needs of students with various learning challenges. I also understand the needs of students who are working on advanced coursework.
While I can help English language learners, I am NOT a certified ESL teacher.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find a teacher who will listen to you and guide you in a way that makes you feel happy about yourself and your achievement.