Ms. Durwood Math Tutoring
About
Working with students is what I was made to do! I have been privately tutoring students for 12 years of my career and working in the education field for over 18 years. My favorite subject to teach is mathematics up to Algebra I, and I work with students ages 3-15 entirely online. I am known for my sense of humor, being able to adapt quickly to each student's needs, and for using evidence-based instruction to achieve learning goals. I am currently enrolled at North Park University to earn my Master of Arts in Teaching Elementary Education, and previously earned a Master of Arts in Public Policy from Northwestern University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from DePaul University. I am a certified tutor by the National Tutoring Association as well as a certified substitute teacher. I am fortunate to have been the recipient of a few awards, including an award from Education Pioneers for embodying the value of optimism and the Director of the Year from a subsidiary of Kaplan, Inc.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First I have a 15-30 minute consultation with parents and student to understand the student's individual needs and learning goals. Then, I recommend a learning plan and start with an initial assessment of skills. From there, I will offer instruction online via Zoom and re-assess the student's understanding until our initial goal is achieved and a new goal emerges.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a certified tutor with the National Tutoring Association as well as a licensed substitute teacher. I have 12 years experience as a private tutor and 18 years experience in the education field. I am the former Center Director of a total of four tutoring centers for elementary aged children where I managed the instruction for students at all learning levels.
I am currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching Elementary Education at North Park University, while I have already earned a Master of Arts in Public Policy from Northwestern University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology fron DePaul University.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I offer first-time students one free 20-minute lesson.
30 minutes = $30
45 minutes = $40
60 minutes = $50
How did you get started teaching?
My first instructional experience began in college when I was the Teaching Assistant for Psychology of Social Justice and coordinated volunteer afterschool tutors for a public housing site. From there, I spent four years working for a subsidiary of Kaplan, Inc. as Center Director for a total of four tutoring centers over four years working extensively with hundreds of families to help each child achieve their academic goals and build confidence and motivation. Since then I have worked as a private tutor as well as for the UChicago Urban Education institute where I worked on educational research, policies, and projects.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have experience working with students ages 3-17 of all learning levels and from diverse backgrounds. I approach all students with warmth, humor, and research-based instructional practices. I primarily teach mathematics and reading/language arts.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Having lived in the Midwest my entire life, I embrace the four seasons and recently got to enjoy the huge snowfall in Chicago! Big snow events are part of life, and I love walking through parks and neighborhoods admiring the natural beauty and festive decor of homes and businesses.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Everyone is unique, so finding a strong match means being true to yourself.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What will success look like? How can it be measured?
What are your likes and dislikes when it comes to learning?
What are your learning goals?
How long would you like to work on your goals?