My professional career began as a chemist with the FDA, and I went on to work in a medical school, in testing labs, and as a science writer and editor. In the early 1980s, I returned to school and earned a TX teaching certificate in Secondary Composite Science (Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Earth Science, Physical Science, Environmental Science) and M.Ed.in Science Curriculum and Instruction. In addition, I have over 20 years of teaching experience, at all levels, including 14 years in Houston- area schools working with students in grades 6 -12. I’ve also worked with magnet-level classes, ESL and at-risk students, and homebound students, and I have taught in private schools in New England and Latin America.
My tutoring experience began in the mid-1980s, when I worked in the office of the Department of Mathematics at Rice University. Parents were calling for tutors, and there were no available graduate students. The chairman suggested that I tutor algebra, and I've been tutoring ever since.
I studied Spanish at a language institute in Puerto Rico, and then I went to Peru with a volunteer organization. There, I conducted chemical research at a university and also adopted a baby girl. When I returned to the U.S., I taught Spanish in language schools and private schools and translated documents for oil companies. I recently taught Conversational Spanish for Berlitz, at ESPN headquarters in CT.
When I start working with new students, I ask them to bring whatever homework and test papers they have so that I know where to begin and to find out where they are having problems. I also ask them to get me a copy of their text or to email me current assignments so that I am prepared for our next class. Students can always contact me by phone or by email; I want to diminish any anxiety they may have so that they can better focus on their work.
Finally, I really love teaching and find that I learn along with my students. I also realize that they are under tremendous pressure to succeed and that they get frustrated. I believe that I can help them to improve in their studies and to feel a sense of accomplishment. However, my greatest asset as a tutor comes from having spent many years in the classroom, being patient, and always learning something from my students.
** Note: Travel beyond 10 miles requires an increased hourly rate of $5.00 **
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