About
I have been teaching Secondary English in Massachusetts for 17 years. I have a MEd. in Curriculum and Teaching from Fitchburg State University and a BA in Philosophy from Yale University.
I love working with students who are motivated to improve their skills in critical thinking, creativity, and organization. I help students to work smarter, not harder. I teach them time-management skills that, when implemented, make their lives so much easier and more fulfilling. I enjoy showing students how they can take control of their future while watching them become more independent and successful.
Highlights
Reviews
William L.
Emma D.
Kathleen F.
Stephanie B.
Tim O.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
When I meet students for the first time, I think it's important to get to know them personally. Giving a student the individualized attention they deserve is nearly impossible without having a personal relationship with them. Once the student and I get to know one another, then we can determine the student's strengths and areas for improvement and develop a plan for success.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been teaching Secondary English in Massachusetts since 2002. I began tutoring students one-on-one since 2006. I have a MEd. from Fitchburg State University (2009) and a BA in Philosophy from Yale University (2000).
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Tutoring services range from $40-75/hour, depending on the student's particular needs.
Confirmation emails or texts will be sent prior to tutoring sessions. Any session missed, late cancelled, or changed without 24 hours notice will result in a charge equal to 100% of the reserved session amount.
How did you get started teaching?
I began my career as an Educational Assistant in an an elementary school in New Haven, Connecticut, in 2001. I earned my Preliminary License in Massachusetts in the spring of 2002 and began teaching at the high school level that fall.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all types of students, such as typical learners, learners on IEPs, and ELL students. I have also done volunteer work with preschool students.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
My Sophomores are currently working on a project centered around Henry David Thoreau's Resistance to Civil Government. They are determining a social issue that needs to be changed and are actually going through the process of committing their own acts of civil disobedience. I'm proud to see them take the initiative to create positive change in society, especially around issues that impact them directly like school safety, dress codes, and later start times for high school students.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would encourage students to look for a tutor who had a high level of expertise in the specific area in which they need help. Their tutor should be well-educated, have a significant amouth of teaching and tutoring experience, and have strong references from past clients.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
It's important that the student knows exactly what it is they need help with; a student who does not have a clear understanding of how the teacher can help may not fully reap the benefits of one-on-one tutoring. Students should be able to clearly articulate their needs as opposed to providing generalities. For example, "I tend to summarize what I read, as opposed to analyze evidence to support my claim statement" is more helpful to the teacher than "I don't know how to write". This will absolutely help the teacher understand how to best work with the student.