Elementary School Teacher (K-6)

Depending on the subject or conent I am helping with, I like to administer a quick pre-assessment to see where my student is and what exactly we need to work on.

I have been teaching for the last 6 years and have taught across the elementary grades, from kindergarten up to grade 5. I am currently teaching 4th grade. I hold a B.S. in Elementary Education, and an M.Ed in Language Education (focused on ENL learners and bilingual education). I also hold two NYS teaching certifications - Childhood Education (Grades 1-6) and Early Childhood Education (Birth-Grade 2).

Hourly rate

Teaching isn't just what I do; it's who I am. From the moment I stepped into a classroom, I knew I had found my calling. It's a journey that started with a passion for learning and a desire to inspire others. I pursued this passion through college, earning my degree in education, followed by a master's to deepen my understanding and expertise. My journey has taken me around the world, teaching in diverse settings abroad, each experience enriching my perspective and refining my approach. Now, I'm back in my home state of New York, bringing that global perspective and rich experience to students right here at home. Every student is unique, and my approach reflects that. I strive to create an environment where every individual feels valued, challenged, and supported. Whether it's breaking down complex concepts, fostering critical thinking skills, or igniting a love for learning, I am committed to helping each student reach their full potential. Teaching isn't just about imparting knowledge; it's about empowering students to become lifelong learners and confident individuals ready to take on the world. I am honored to be a part of that journey.

I've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of students throughout my teaching career. In my various roles, both abroad and in New York, I've encountered students from different cultural backgrounds, academic abilities, and ages. Some of the types of students I've worked with include: 1. English Language Learners (ELLs): Having taught abroad, I've worked extensively with students who are learning English as a second or additional language. This experience has given me insights into effective language acquisition strategies and the importance of creating inclusive learning environments. 2. Students with Diverse Learning Needs: I've supported students with a wide range of learning needs, including those with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), students on the autism spectrum, and students with attention difficulties. Tailoring my teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles and providing appropriate support has been a key aspect of my practice. 3. High Achievers: In addition to supporting students who may need extra assistance, I've also had the opportunity to work with high-achieving students who benefit from enrichment activities and advanced coursework. Challenging these students to reach their full potential and fostering their intellectual curiosity has been incredibly rewarding. 4. Students from Various Socioeconomic Backgrounds: I've taught students from different socioeconomic backgrounds, ranging from underserved communities to more affluent areas. Understanding the unique challenges and strengths of each community has been essential in creating equitable learning opportunities for all students. 5. Adult Learners: Through my teaching experiences, I've also had the opportunity to work with adult learners, including those pursuing further education, career advancement, or personal enrichment. Tailoring instruction to meet the specific needs and goals of adult learners requires flexibility and a deep understanding of their motivations. Overall, my experience working with such diverse groups of students has taught me the importance of individualized instruction, cultural competence, and empathy in fostering student success.

One recent teaching event that stands out in my memory occurred during a literature unit I was teaching to a group of 4th grade students. We were exploring a particularly challenging text, and I could sense that some of the students were feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of the material. To make the text more accessible and engaging, I decided to organize an "aesthetic coffee shop" in our classroom (if you know 4th graders, you know they're into 'aesthetic'!). I transformed the space with dim lighting, soft music playing in the background, and comfortable seating arrangements. I encouraged the students to bring snacks and drinks to create a cozy atmosphere. During the coffee shop, each student took turns reading aloud passages from the text that resonated with them or sparked their curiosity. We then engaged in deep discussions about the themes, characters, and symbolism in the text, with students freely sharing their interpretations and insights. What made this event particularly memorable was witnessing the transformation in the students' engagement and confidence. Initially hesitant to share their thoughts, they gradually became more comfortable expressing their ideas and engaging in intellectual discourse. It was heartening to see them supporting each other, asking thought-provoking questions, and challenging each other's perspectives in a respectful manner. As the session progressed, I could see the students' enthusiasm for the text growing, as they began to make connections between the literature and their own lives. By the end of the coffee shop, even the students who had been initially reluctant to participate were actively contributing to the discussion and expressing their appreciation for the opportunity to delve deeply into the text. Reflecting on this teaching event fills me with pride and joy, as it exemplifies the power of creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students feel empowered to engage with challenging material and develop their critical thinking skills. It was a reminder of why I am passionate about teaching and the profound impact it can have on students' lives.

If you're looking to hire a tutor in elementary education, here are some tips to help you find the right fit: 1. Qualifications and Experience: Look for a tutor who has a solid educational background and experience working with elementary-aged students. A degree in education or a related field, along with teaching experience, is a good indicator of expertise. 2. Understanding of Elementary Curriculum: Make sure the tutor has a strong understanding of the elementary school curriculum, including the subjects your child needs help with (e.g., math, reading, writing). They should be familiar with the standards and expectations for each grade level. 3. Adaptability and Patience: Elementary students have diverse learning styles and needs. Choose a tutor who is adaptable and patient, able to tailor their teaching approach to meet your child's individual needs and pace of learning. 4. Engaging Teaching Style: Look for a tutor who employs interactive and engaging teaching methods to keep your child motivated and interested in learning. Hands-on activities, games, and visual aids can make learning fun and effective. 5. Effective Communication Skills: Communication between the tutor, student, and parents is essential for success. Choose a tutor who communicates clearly and regularly about your child's progress, challenges, and areas for improvement. 6. Positive Rapport with Students: The tutor should have a warm and supportive demeanor, fostering a positive rapport with your child. Building trust and confidence is key to creating a conducive learning environment. 7. References and Reviews: Don't hesitate to ask for references or read online reviews from other parents or students who have worked with the tutor. Hearing about their experiences can provide valuable insights into the tutor's effectiveness and teaching style. 8. Commitment to Continuous Improvement: A good tutor is committed to ongoing professional development and continuously seeks to improve their teaching skills and knowledge. Ask about their approach to professional growth and how they stay updated on best practices in education. By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can find a tutor who not only helps your child succeed academically but also fosters a love for learning that extends beyond the tutoring sessions.

Before approaching a teacher to discuss their needs, students should take some time to reflect on the following questions: 1. What specific areas do I need help with?: Identify the subjects or topics where you're struggling or would like additional support. Be as specific as possible about the challenges you're facing. 2. What are my learning goals?: Clarify your short-term and long-term learning goals. What do you hope to achieve by seeking assistance from the teacher? Setting clear objectives will help guide the conversation and ensure that the support you receive aligns with your goals. 3. How do I learn best?: Reflect on your preferred learning styles and strategies. Do you learn best through hands-on activities, visual aids, verbal explanations, or a combination of approaches? Understanding your learning preferences can help the teacher tailor their instruction to suit your needs. 4. What strategies have I already tried?: Think about the strategies or techniques you've already attempted to address your learning challenges. What has been effective, and what hasn't worked as well? This information can help the teacher understand your current approach and offer personalized recommendations. 5. What support do I need from the teacher?: Consider the specific types of support you're seeking from the teacher. Do you need clarification on certain concepts, additional practice opportunities, or guidance on study skills and time management? Being clear about your needs will facilitate a more productive discussion. 6. Are there any external factors impacting my learning?: Reflect on any external factors that may be affecting your academic performance, such as personal or family issues, health concerns, or extracurricular commitments. Providing context about your circumstances can help the teacher better understand your challenges and offer appropriate support. 7. What are my strengths and interests?: Recognize your strengths and areas of interest in addition to your areas of difficulty. Sharing your strengths and interests with the teacher can help them incorporate activities and materials that engage and motivate you. 8. How can I advocate for myself?: Consider how you can effectively communicate your needs and concerns to the teacher. Practice articulating your thoughts and asking questions in a respectful and assertive manner. Remember that advocating for yourself is an important skill that will serve you well beyond the classroom. By thinking through these questions beforehand, students can approach their teachers with a clear understanding of their needs and goals, fostering a productive and collaborative relationship that supports their academic success.