Hello Everyone!
My name is Debra. I am a certified Texas teacher and enjoy working with both children and adults to build academic success.
I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of North Texas in Anthropology with a Geology minor, graduating magna cum laude. Concurrently, during my undergraduate studies, I taught science labs for archaeology, physical geology, and earth science and served as the teaching assistant for Intro to Archaeology and Archaeological Science. During my final year at UNT, I was awarded a National Science Foundation Fellowship (NSF) to attend graduate school; I had previously received a Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program Scholarship, which is designed to prepare undergraduate students for graduate studies through research, publication, and presentations. I chose to attend Southern Methodist University to pursue graduate studies in Anthropology, focusing on Geo-Archaeology. I was not able to teach while attending SMU and missed it greatly. Two years later I decided to leave SMU to pursue my teaching certification and have never regretted my choice.
Teaching, and therefore tutoring, is a part of my identity; it encompasses who I am rather than what I do. Creating interesting ways for students to receive, comprehend, and process their curriculum is one of my greatest assets. I am Texas certified to teach English Language Arts and Reading, Special Education, and English as a Second Language in Texas. Additionally, I am highly qualified (per Section 1119 of The No Child Left Behind Act—NCLB), to teach Science and Social Studies. My teaching experience is with students in grades 6 to 12. However, as a special education teacher, I also teach many students who function below their grade levels, so I feel at ease teaching elementary grades as well.
My teaching style can best be described as student individualization with a strong emphasis on differentiating lessons and activities specifically for the student being tutored. Active learning is essential; we process knowledge best by doing. I also strongly believe in developing trusting relationships with students and practicing patience during instruction. I strive to create a relaxed, encouraging environment for my students infused with activities that engage the learner.
I look forward to hearing from you and assisting you with your tutoring needs.
Respectfully,
Debra M.
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