About
I have over 15 years of experience teaching 5th, 2nd and 3rd grades. I have a Master’s in English as a Second Language.
I enjoy the relationships that are built with students. People don’t learn from those they don’t like. I also enjoy developing number sense in children that struggle with math, much like I did. This was because I didn’t understand how numbers worked. I have developed a system over the years to teach students how to become a fluent mathematician and confident when it comes to math.
I also enjoy teaching students how to read for meaning which in turns develops a love of reading for those who may struggle. The key is to focus on interest and reading level. If students read books that are too hard, they will become frustrated and quit. If students read books that are too easy, they become board and quit. If students are not interested in what they are reading...well...you get the picture.
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Julie G.
Julie G.
Melaney L.
Kerry
Matt A.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I will first want to get to know the student and vise versa. An icebreaker/game is always a good start. I then like to assess to further get to know the students needs. I would then like to goal set with the students after sharing their assessment results. From there I would map out a progression of the work needed to be done to reach a particular goal within the amount time determined between student/parent and tutor/me.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I went to Kansas State University for my undergraduate in education. I graduated there in 2004. In 2011 I went back to school for my Masters in English as Second Language. In 2015 I traveled abroad to Madrid, Spain to teach ESL and received another certificate furthering my experience with adults as English language learners. I do speak polite Spanish, however I am not fluent.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I typically charge $30 a session. With my level of education and experience I have a firm grasp on how learning works. I understand the social, emotional and cognitive functions of children. I know how to make learning fun, engaging and I create results!
How did you get started teaching?
It started in high school when I became a lifeguard for my summer gig. One of the best responsibilities I had was teaching swimming lessons. I loved working with children and the passion grew from there. When I went to college 2000, my job was a paraprofessional and I worked with students who were diagnosed with autism. After leaving college I was hired by a perocial school in Los Angeles CA in 2004. There I worked with the Korean population in Koreatown. After three years in CA I moved back to KS and took job with Kansas City KS schools where I'm currently still employed. In 2011 I returned to school for my Masters. I've had great experiences working with students from diverse populations. All these experiences have shaped me and I'm so grateful for all of them and proud of the teacher I am today.
What types of students have you worked with?
-Children and adults
-Students diagnosed with special needs
-English language learners
-I know how to differentiate using data to meet students where they are and then push them to reach their goals
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I have a class of 24 students. 22 of them are English language learners. Many of them know both English and Spanish. I have 5 students who only speak Spanish at this point. Our classroom is buzzing daily. We have built a community where we trust one another. We talk, we share and listen. I have a groups of students who translate for me and the 5 Spanish speakers daily helping us to understand one another. Mind you, these are 8 year olds. It is a classroom where students collaborate. I am so proud of the supportive community we have built where everyone is excited about learning!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
-Ask them about their education
-How many years of experience and from where
-What has been their best experience
-Think of an educational experience you have had where you wish an adult/teacher would have acted differently, put them in that scenario and ask how they would have responded
-Why are they passionate about education
-What strategies they have used that have proven results
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
How do you know how to help me?
How will you make learning fun?
When will I know that I am learning and there are results?
How do I communicate with you if I am unhappy or things are not going well?