I am a Father of four successful and capable adult children all of whom are pursuing their passions with excellence and integrity. I have been married to the same amazing woman for 26 years and in that time, we have been involved in serving in a variety of ways in our community, through church, volunteer work and professionally.
As a graduate of the California State University at Long Beach, I completed my undergraduate work in Applied Psychology with a minor in Human Resources. That education has been invaluable over the years and I find myself drawing on that training frequently in the course of my journey through life.
I received my Master's degree from Regis University here in Colorado in Organization Leadership several years ago. I maintained a 4.0 GPA and graduated with honors. I was inducted into the Alpha Sigma Nu honor society for academic excellence and service to the community and was pleased to present one of two commencement speeches to my graduating class of some 500 students. In addition, I received the David M. Clarke Innovative Leadership Award at the graduation.
We home-schooled our own children for a number of years, but recognized that there were times when they needed and wanted to be in a public setting so two of our kids graduated from public high schools. During that time, I participated in their education at home and taught both our children and other kids at our local home school co-op. I received 100% positive feedback from the kids whom I taught, from their parents and from the teacher coaches (supervisors.)
I have owned and operated my own businesses for many years, so I bring lots of practical life experience to my teaching, which I see as a holistic approach, incorporating wisdom and life experience along with academics. I am a published author having produced a book and several articles. I still write regularly on a number of professional and personal topics. I am familiar with many different subjects, both business-related and academically and I can provide you a full resume upon request.
We have a 16-year old son with Down Syndrome, so I am very familiar with learning challenges and Matthew is doing exceptionally well, now attending our local high school as a sophomore and having the time of his life!
I am passionate about students learning in a way that is practical and applicable so that it becomes more than just information to be regurgitated, but in a way that builds positive connections to life. To do this means I have to find ways to excite and motivate the child. This can be challenging but every student has a "best" way to learn and I am willing to work to find that motivator. I also believe that the enthusiasm and personal interest that the instructor demonstrates towards the child is critical in motivating the child to want to learn.
I would love to provide the same care and support to your child as I have been able to give to mine and think you will be pleased with their progress as I work with them.
Respectfully,
Russ
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