About
I have long had a passion for teaching in both traditional classrooms and for tutoring one on one. I like to use a variety of teaching styles to match the learning styles of my students. I find that this keeps my students (and myself) engaged and excited for both the academic content and for the process of learning itself. I developed this passion in the mid- 1980's while working in the Special Education Department at the University of Memphis, where I attended on a State Board Regent's scholarship. I had wonderful mentors that encouraged me to be enthusiastic about the teaching profession and to have compassion for students with various learning styles. I graduated with a BFA and was admitted to the graduate school of education where I studied Special Education. I also attended professional continuing education to write specialized curriculum in and through the arts at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. This is where I really learned to be focused and creative in reaching all learners. I have taught in the public school system in both Tipton County and in the Memphis City School system, as well as, two years in the Catholic School system. I retired in the spring of 2009. I am currently enrolled in the Arizona State University ESL professional certification program so that I may better understand teaching methods for non-native English speakers. I am super excited about it! Growing up, I personally did not like school, although I had good grades. It breaks my heart to see a learner struggle when a bit of extra time and attention that is customized just for that learner will, "Do the trick." I find that most of my students not only need help in a certain academic area, but also need things like study skills, identification of personal learning styles, test prep strategies, and other instruction to meet their goals. I am very goal oriented, and I enjoy breaking instruction into "bite size" chunks to achieve the overall goal. My aim is to teach in an enthusiastic, creative, and nurturing manner. It brings me joy when a student breathes a sigh of relief after struggling.
I am currently working on creating a social prescence on Facebook and my Website is under construction. Please check back in the coming weeks.
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Wendy F.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I begin by meeting with the student in person or via phone to get an understanding of the student's current academic standing and past academic experiences. Then together we discuss goals and implement the best plan to meet those goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I recieved my BA from the University of Memphis, took additional professional training from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in curriculum writing, and was then admitted to the graduate education program at the University of Memphis, where I have a 4.0 gpa. I have had the good fortune to work with very diverse student populations in Memphis City Schools and the Tipton County School System. I retired from the local Catholic School system in 2009.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I generally charge by the hour starting at $25 for elementary instruction, $30 for middle school instruction and $35 for ACT test preparation. I am also available between meetings via phone or text if a student needs a bit of help before the next scheduled meeting. This is no additional charge.
How did you get started teaching?
I was a professional pianist and dancer, and began teaching in those professions first. As my three children became school aged, I returned to school for my teacher education courses and proper testing for licensure. It was a natural and enjoyable transition.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with a wide variety of learners from all backgrounds and neighborhoods, and in both public and private schools. I really enjoy seeing all the different learning styles of my private students because since I get to know them so well, we can use many styles of learning that the average classroom time may not allow for.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Last spring semester a shy, anxious 4th grade math student came to me with a D average in math. We worked hard, yet still had fun doing it. I still get updates from his mother telling me of his math averages this year, which have been all A's. He is more confident and happy in the classroom, and that just warms my heart.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would reccomend talking to the teacher at length so that you are really comfortable with the blending of personalities. A student should feel comfortable and understood. While a teacher's education and experience are certainly important, I have experienced that is the teacher/pupil relationship that truly opens the door for a positive learning experience.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Firstly, try to be a realistic as possible on your current academic status. Many students have told me that they wished they had reached out for help sooner. It is easy to get "in over your head" without realizing it. Also, think about short term and long term goals so that the teacher can help you make a plan to achieve them. Lastly, look for a teacher that is flexible towards your personal learning style to optizmize results.