Autistic Support Tutor K-8
About
Hi, I'm Mara!
I have been in and out of classrooms since I was 10 years old, volunteering, working, and helping in any way I could. I have a BA in Literature and Research from The Evergreen State College, but also attended the University of Arizona before relocating to Olympia Washington in 2008. While studying education and foreign languages at the UofA, I worked and volunteered at local schools (k-8), primarily tutoring ESL students and working with special needs children. I have been self-employed as a small business owner for almost 10 years, but still spend time volunteering whenever I can.
I have always had a passion for writing, and expressing thoughts through the written word. I take a critical eye to college level essays and topics, and am a strong proponent of learning good research/study habits early.
I also have over 15 years of experience working with special needs children (k-8) in and outside of the classroom. I have spent the majority of my time tutoring adolescent children who are on the autism spectrum, mostly high functioning. These children are those who need help learning how to study/work in a classroom environment, or need help with catching up to their classmates. Sometimes that means understanding what a homework and school routine is, then sticking to it. Other times, it may be just sitting down and figuring out a different way to communicate things (to yourself and others).
I do understand IEPs and am happy to help with implementing the educational and social goals set out by the school's psychologist/speech/occupational therapist. I am familiar with de-escalation tactics as well.
I enjoy working with kids/adolesents that just need that extra bit of help. I understand how hard it can be when you are the guardian/parent of a special needs kid, it's a lot of work! But you are seen and appreciated, I hope I can help if it's needed.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
When working with a new student I want them to feel, first and foremost, comfortable. I am coming into their space and asking for their time, and I want them to know that. But, I also expect everyone to be ready to work.
I enjoy incorportaing games, and different learning techniques into homework/school work to make it more fun and engaging; but, sometimes, it's just boring and hard, and that's ok. School isn't always fun, and leanrning how to cope with that is part of learning and growing. I just want the "trouble" subjects to be a source of pride and not shame.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My parents both come from educational backgrounds, both as traditional teachers, but also school psychology and pre-school special education.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My standard rate is $30/hr
Time frames are flexible.