Jo C. - Tutor in Washington, DC (20003)

I am a teacher; it is only now, after many years that I am officially a teacher. As an habitual student, a mom, a former bank and government manager, a college and graduate-level tutor, and a K-12 special educator, I have a good understanding of the diversity of learning styles.

I believe in finding one's strengths first. Strength lifts our shortcomings to higher levels. Foundations of learning are fine, but a person has to grow to establish the roots. And, to grow, one has to feel a sense of warmth and empowerment that can only be found in personal self-confidence. So, I start with the visible best and encourage the deeper growth.

My brief resume reads: Certified K-12 special education teacher; college-level tutor. Graduate studies in rehabilitation counseling. Available for K-12 through college-level. Able to engage in study areas across all grade and ability levels, from kindergarten to advanced projects requiring writing and on-line research. Study skills and organizational management coached for all ages. Extensive background in banking/real estate and the biological sciences.

I believe in making reading fun and mathematics a game. I work diligently with IEP and Transition goals. I look forward to working with wyzant students. We will each learn.

elementary (k-6th)

My certification is in special education, cross-categorical, K-12. As a PRAXIS II test requirement in the state of Pennsylvania, all special education teacher graduates must pass the elementary level of general teaching knowledge for certification. I passed this portion of the test in the higher level of the bell curve. In addition, my teacher-training education included practicum and student teaching assignments at elementary schools in both an inclusive setting and with students with behavioral disorders that were functioning across the grade level spectrum, including "gifted." I completed my teaching degree graduating Magna Cum Laude. I have dual bachelor's degrees - one in psychology with a physiological psychology interest, and the second in education with a special education certification. I also have numerous graduate hours in rehabilitation counseling. In addition to having taught in a 6th grade (middle school) inclusive setting, I have taken numerous courses in childhood stages of development and learning on both the undergraduate and graduate levels. In summary, my educational and practical experience is across all levels, from childhood to adult.

study skills

As a special needs educator, study skills are at the top of the list of important subjects. Organization is critical and study skills is about utilizing time in the most efficient and effective manner. I have taught study skills to those in school and those in job training situations. We have reviewed how to read and take important notes and how to keep and maintain a schedule. We have discussed planning and preparing ahead of time. Study skills are not simply school-related. They are a life requirement. Study skills do not have to be difficult or cumbersome. They need to be easy... the type of thing you just do... like putting a wallet in your pocket or locking the door when you leave the house. A habit. Good study skills lead to much more than a good grade.

special needs

I am a teacher with certification in Special Education. I graduated Magna Cum Laude and took the Praxis II test with scores in the high range. I have worked with children and adults with special needs across all areas of disabilities. My graduate studies are in rehabilitation counseling which includes those who have had disabilities from birth and those who have aquired disabilities. I have taught in inclusive settings with regular education teachers. I have worked in day centers for both children and adults in day and after-school programs. Presently, I teach in a room with children from the ages of 15 to 21. We have students who are in job training, others who will be seeking group living arrangements, all who need to learn something of money management and safety skills, etc. Some of our children have had disabilities since birth, and others have incurred disabilities later in life. Having several family members with their own special needs, I understand the trials and concerns, as well as the joys and triumphs in every day.

GED

Today, many students do not complete high school. The drop-out rates are high in so many areas of our country. But, a diploma is necessary for work, the military, and for documenting that one has the commitment to follow through. As a special needs educator, I am challenged daily by those students who are frustrated and just want to quit. Right now, I am fortunate to be working in a school district that is committed to an alternative program that allows our students to get credit for working. As a result, many of our kids remain in school until the age of 21 when they must legally exit the program. Many children are not so fortunate. As a special needs teacher, I am certified to teach from K-12 across all subject areas. I have worked with children who have been "on the streets." I have taught GED subject material to students who have been ready to walk away from school without a diploma, and they have been able to walk away with a degree that has allowed them to enter college. Some of then have gone on to advanced technical training. A GED is evidence of a commitment. As a teacher, I am committed to teach each student through a degreed program.