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Richard S.

CLHS Educator of the Year - AP, IB, and Undergraduate Math Specialist

CLHS Educator of the Year - AP, IB, and Undergraduate Math Specialist

$50/hour

5.0 (593 ratings)

  • 2,279 hours tutoring

About Richard

Bio

"Why study mathematics?" and "How will I ever understand this stuff?" are two of the most real and common questions I am asked when students, along with their parents, ask me to help. I use methods and techniques that I've perfected over the years to show the applicability and the beauty behind "the beast" known as mathematics...and my students get it.

I break down and re-assemble the processes of math so that they can be easily applied to corresponding situations, especially "word"...

"Why study mathematics?" and "How will I ever understand this stuff?" are two of the most real and common questions I am asked when students, along with their parents, ask me to help. I use methods and techniques that I've perfected over the years to show the applicability and the beauty behind "the beast" known as mathematics...and my students get it.

I break down and re-assemble the processes of math so that they can be easily applied to corresponding situations, especially "word" problems. My students love the results they get, and their understanding and test scores always go up.

My favorite math areas to tutor include algebra, geometry, trigonometry, elementary statistics and probability, precalculus, and calculus through differential equations.

My diligent efforts earned me the 2007 California League of High Schools Educator of the Year award along with many student submissions of my name to Who's Who Among America's Teachers for four consecutive years.

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Education

University of Lowell, Massachusetts
Meterology
Worcester State University
MEd
Credentialing/Contiuing Education - UC Berkeley
Graduate Coursework

Policies

  • Hourly Rate: $50
  • Rate details: 20% RATE REDUCTION applies if referred using my custom URL, found on my flyer, card, or sent electronically to you by me. REDUCED RATES available for small group and online lessons.
  • Lesson cancellation: 5 hours notice required

  • Background check passed on 3/19/2015

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

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Subjects

Corporate Training

Statistics

Statistics

Statistics is one of the most useful applications of math in the world today. It is used in virtually every business, both as an evaluator of past performance and a predictor of future endeavors. As a result, so much of what drives our world is based on our understanding and implementation of statistical patterns. As a public school educator of mathematics for over 30 years, I have had the privilege of helping many students appreciate the foundations of statistics and the application of its formulas.

Elementary Education

Study Skills

Study Skills

As a high school math teacher for over 30 years, I have successfully helped thousands of students learn how to study one of the most challenging subjects. I have also taught courses to help students prepare for standardized tests like the SAT, AP, and IB exams. Two of the most obvious keys to success are organization and practice. But I share three other lesser known skills that gets students to rise to the top of their potential. I get so much enjoyment to see their faces light up when their scores go up.

Homeschool

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

There's no reason to continue struggling with the symbolism of Algebra. It's really quite elementary when you let me show you how numbers and letters do "socialize" quite nicely. I have been helping students, both in the classroom and in private tutoring settings, for over 30 years to understand this powerful language. This language has led to so many of our world's modern inventions and conveniences, from computers to cell phones to tablets, and so much more. Believe me - it's amazing. And I can actually help you to enjoy it as you learn.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

If you are looking to attend a college or university with an advantage, a solid foundation in Algebra 2 (a.k.a. intermediate algebra or Integrated Math 3) is truly a springboard to achieve this. Or if you're in college and struggling with intermediate or advanced algebra, get yourself on track to the top. It is so encouraging to succeed in the mathematics that explains, and even drives, much of our lives. Learn with one of the best: I've been teaching this subject for over 30 years and have taught hundreds of students to appreciate and enjoy this truly eloquent language of science and business.
Calculus,

Calculus

This is the study of how changes affect our lives, represented mathematically. Calculus is one of the most fascinating subjects ever discovered and developed. Just think of what life would be like without velocity and acceleration to "tickle" our imaginations and reality. I have been teaching this subject to students for over 25 years, and I enjoy teaching it more today than ever before. And my students regularly tell me how I make the subject come alive for them.
Geometry,

Geometry

Proofs can, and must, be done in today's world - and you can learn to do them as you learn to reason logically. Using shapes that we are all familiar with, writing proofs establishes the foundation for future computer programmers, scientists, politicians, economists, and lawyers - just to mention a few.
Piano,

Piano

I have been playing piano/keyboards (accordion, organ, synthesizers) for over 50 years. I played professionally for 20 of these years, including general business, rock, and jazz. (Currently, I am playing with a six-piece ensemble for the joy of it, with occasional "gigs" for family and friends.) I have also given private keyboard lessons (on-and-off) since 1974. My approach is to teach playing by written note, chord tablature, and ear; and I readily adjust to the student's (and their parents') preferences.
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

I have been a high school math teacher since 1976. Over the years, I have learned many ways to help struggling students to understand and enjoy the math they are studying. I especially enjoy sharing the practical side of the mathematics - how it is being applied in our lives today - to raise my students' appreciation of this most important subject.
Precalculus,

Precalculus

The study of life is embedded in the study of Precalculus. Precalculus explains why and how so many things work, and is the foundation language of all the sciences, including business. It is quite possibly the best high school course ever!
SAT Math,

SAT Math

You know you know the math. Now you need to learn to recognize it in the language that is known as SAT. And that's where I come in to help and rescue. Success is imminent - take the plunge.
Statistics,

Statistics

Statistics is one of the most useful applications of math in the world today. It is used in virtually every business, both as an evaluator of past performance and a predictor of future endeavors. As a result, so much of what drives our world is based on our understanding and implementation of statistical patterns. As a public school educator of mathematics for over 30 years, I have had the privilege of helping many students appreciate the foundations of statistics and the application of its formulas.
Study Skills

Study Skills

As a high school math teacher for over 30 years, I have successfully helped thousands of students learn how to study one of the most challenging subjects. I have also taught courses to help students prepare for standardized tests like the SAT, AP, and IB exams. Two of the most obvious keys to success are organization and practice. But I share three other lesser known skills that gets students to rise to the top of their potential. I get so much enjoyment to see their faces light up when their scores go up.

Math

ACT Math,

ACT Math

With over 30 years of experience teaching every possible public high school math course, I have learned so many "tricks of the trade" that have helped many of my students excel. This includes helping my students learn how to successfully manage the taking of tests like the ACT. In the process, my students usually overcome any fear of math and come to appreciate the wonderful applications in real life.
Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

There's no reason to continue struggling with the symbolism of Algebra. It's really quite elementary when you let me show you how numbers and letters do "socialize" quite nicely. I have been helping students, both in the classroom and in private tutoring settings, for over 30 years to understand this powerful language. This language has led to so many of our world's modern inventions and conveniences, from computers to cell phones to tablets, and so much more. Believe me - it's amazing. And I can actually help you to enjoy it as you learn.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

If you are looking to attend a college or university with an advantage, a solid foundation in Algebra 2 (a.k.a. intermediate algebra or Integrated Math 3) is truly a springboard to achieve this. Or if you're in college and struggling with intermediate or advanced algebra, get yourself on track to the top. It is so encouraging to succeed in the mathematics that explains, and even drives, much of our lives. Learn with one of the best: I've been teaching this subject for over 30 years and have taught hundreds of students to appreciate and enjoy this truly eloquent language of science and business.
Calculus,

Calculus

This is the study of how changes affect our lives, represented mathematically. Calculus is one of the most fascinating subjects ever discovered and developed. Just think of what life would be like without velocity and acceleration to "tickle" our imaginations and reality. I have been teaching this subject to students for over 25 years, and I enjoy teaching it more today than ever before. And my students regularly tell me how I make the subject come alive for them.
Geometry,

Geometry

Proofs can, and must, be done in today's world - and you can learn to do them as you learn to reason logically. Using shapes that we are all familiar with, writing proofs establishes the foundation for future computer programmers, scientists, politicians, economists, and lawyers - just to mention a few.
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

I have been a high school math teacher since 1976. Over the years, I have learned many ways to help struggling students to understand and enjoy the math they are studying. I especially enjoy sharing the practical side of the mathematics - how it is being applied in our lives today - to raise my students' appreciation of this most important subject.
Precalculus,

Precalculus

The study of life is embedded in the study of Precalculus. Precalculus explains why and how so many things work, and is the foundation language of all the sciences, including business. It is quite possibly the best high school course ever!
Probability,

Probability

What are the chances of your passing your stats and probability course? If you're in doubt, my 36 years of helping hundreds of students be successful will definitely improve your odds. And you'll probably find yourself enjoying this fascinating and very practical application of numbers.
SAT Math,

SAT Math

You know you know the math. Now you need to learn to recognize it in the language that is known as SAT. And that's where I come in to help and rescue. Success is imminent - take the plunge.
Statistics,

Statistics

Statistics is one of the most useful applications of math in the world today. It is used in virtually every business, both as an evaluator of past performance and a predictor of future endeavors. As a result, so much of what drives our world is based on our understanding and implementation of statistical patterns. As a public school educator of mathematics for over 30 years, I have had the privilege of helping many students appreciate the foundations of statistics and the application of its formulas.
Trigonometry

Trigonometry

This is a fascinating introduction to the math of circles and triangles, each of which surrounds us and runs our lives in ways that we might be unaware. For over 20 years, I have guided individuals and classes on the many ways that trigonometry is used. It is certainly one of my favorite subjects to help,students master.

Most Popular

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

There's no reason to continue struggling with the symbolism of Algebra. It's really quite elementary when you let me show you how numbers and letters do "socialize" quite nicely. I have been helping students, both in the classroom and in private tutoring settings, for over 30 years to understand this powerful language. This language has led to so many of our world's modern inventions and conveniences, from computers to cell phones to tablets, and so much more. Believe me - it's amazing. And I can actually help you to enjoy it as you learn.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

If you are looking to attend a college or university with an advantage, a solid foundation in Algebra 2 (a.k.a. intermediate algebra or Integrated Math 3) is truly a springboard to achieve this. Or if you're in college and struggling with intermediate or advanced algebra, get yourself on track to the top. It is so encouraging to succeed in the mathematics that explains, and even drives, much of our lives. Learn with one of the best: I've been teaching this subject for over 30 years and have taught hundreds of students to appreciate and enjoy this truly eloquent language of science and business.
Calculus,

Calculus

This is the study of how changes affect our lives, represented mathematically. Calculus is one of the most fascinating subjects ever discovered and developed. Just think of what life would be like without velocity and acceleration to "tickle" our imaginations and reality. I have been teaching this subject to students for over 25 years, and I enjoy teaching it more today than ever before. And my students regularly tell me how I make the subject come alive for them.
Geometry,

Geometry

Proofs can, and must, be done in today's world - and you can learn to do them as you learn to reason logically. Using shapes that we are all familiar with, writing proofs establishes the foundation for future computer programmers, scientists, politicians, economists, and lawyers - just to mention a few.
Piano,

Piano

I have been playing piano/keyboards (accordion, organ, synthesizers) for over 50 years. I played professionally for 20 of these years, including general business, rock, and jazz. (Currently, I am playing with a six-piece ensemble for the joy of it, with occasional "gigs" for family and friends.) I have also given private keyboard lessons (on-and-off) since 1974. My approach is to teach playing by written note, chord tablature, and ear; and I readily adjust to the student's (and their parents') preferences.
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

I have been a high school math teacher since 1976. Over the years, I have learned many ways to help struggling students to understand and enjoy the math they are studying. I especially enjoy sharing the practical side of the mathematics - how it is being applied in our lives today - to raise my students' appreciation of this most important subject.
Precalculus,

Precalculus

The study of life is embedded in the study of Precalculus. Precalculus explains why and how so many things work, and is the foundation language of all the sciences, including business. It is quite possibly the best high school course ever!
Statistics,

Statistics

Statistics is one of the most useful applications of math in the world today. It is used in virtually every business, both as an evaluator of past performance and a predictor of future endeavors. As a result, so much of what drives our world is based on our understanding and implementation of statistical patterns. As a public school educator of mathematics for over 30 years, I have had the privilege of helping many students appreciate the foundations of statistics and the application of its formulas.
Study Skills

Study Skills

As a high school math teacher for over 30 years, I have successfully helped thousands of students learn how to study one of the most challenging subjects. I have also taught courses to help students prepare for standardized tests like the SAT, AP, and IB exams. Two of the most obvious keys to success are organization and practice. But I share three other lesser known skills that gets students to rise to the top of their potential. I get so much enjoyment to see their faces light up when their scores go up.

Music

Piano

Piano

I have been playing piano/keyboards (accordion, organ, synthesizers) for over 50 years. I played professionally for 20 of these years, including general business, rock, and jazz. (Currently, I am playing with a six-piece ensemble for the joy of it, with occasional "gigs" for family and friends.) I have also given private keyboard lessons (on-and-off) since 1974. My approach is to teach playing by written note, chord tablature, and ear; and I readily adjust to the student's (and their parents') preferences.

Other

Study Skills

Study Skills

As a high school math teacher for over 30 years, I have successfully helped thousands of students learn how to study one of the most challenging subjects. I have also taught courses to help students prepare for standardized tests like the SAT, AP, and IB exams. Two of the most obvious keys to success are organization and practice. But I share three other lesser known skills that gets students to rise to the top of their potential. I get so much enjoyment to see their faces light up when their scores go up.

Science

Nutrition

Nutrition

With the prospect of facing a life-threatening illness (cancer) in 1979, I began a deep personal study that included nutrition and lifestyle. In 1991 after attending many seminars by leading holistic practitioners, I enrolled in the Hippocrates Health Educator program. Upon graduation, I became the director of education at the Hippocrates Health Institute in West Palm Beach, FL, a role that I held for over two years. From 1994 to 1997, I served as a consultant to alternative medical doctors and organizations around the country while serving as a personal health coach for hundreds of individuals. I currently teach and coach individuals on the importance of healthy choices in lifestyle and diet.

Special Needs

Study Skills

Study Skills

As a high school math teacher for over 30 years, I have successfully helped thousands of students learn how to study one of the most challenging subjects. I have also taught courses to help students prepare for standardized tests like the SAT, AP, and IB exams. Two of the most obvious keys to success are organization and practice. But I share three other lesser known skills that gets students to rise to the top of their potential. I get so much enjoyment to see their faces light up when their scores go up.

Sports/Recreation

Nutrition

Nutrition

With the prospect of facing a life-threatening illness (cancer) in 1979, I began a deep personal study that included nutrition and lifestyle. In 1991 after attending many seminars by leading holistic practitioners, I enrolled in the Hippocrates Health Educator program. Upon graduation, I became the director of education at the Hippocrates Health Institute in West Palm Beach, FL, a role that I held for over two years. From 1994 to 1997, I served as a consultant to alternative medical doctors and organizations around the country while serving as a personal health coach for hundreds of individuals. I currently teach and coach individuals on the importance of healthy choices in lifestyle and diet.

Summer

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

There's no reason to continue struggling with the symbolism of Algebra. It's really quite elementary when you let me show you how numbers and letters do "socialize" quite nicely. I have been helping students, both in the classroom and in private tutoring settings, for over 30 years to understand this powerful language. This language has led to so many of our world's modern inventions and conveniences, from computers to cell phones to tablets, and so much more. Believe me - it's amazing. And I can actually help you to enjoy it as you learn.
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

If you are looking to attend a college or university with an advantage, a solid foundation in Algebra 2 (a.k.a. intermediate algebra or Integrated Math 3) is truly a springboard to achieve this. Or if you're in college and struggling with intermediate or advanced algebra, get yourself on track to the top. It is so encouraging to succeed in the mathematics that explains, and even drives, much of our lives. Learn with one of the best: I've been teaching this subject for over 30 years and have taught hundreds of students to appreciate and enjoy this truly eloquent language of science and business.
Calculus,

Calculus

This is the study of how changes affect our lives, represented mathematically. Calculus is one of the most fascinating subjects ever discovered and developed. Just think of what life would be like without velocity and acceleration to "tickle" our imaginations and reality. I have been teaching this subject to students for over 25 years, and I enjoy teaching it more today than ever before. And my students regularly tell me how I make the subject come alive for them.
Geometry,

Geometry

Proofs can, and must, be done in today's world - and you can learn to do them as you learn to reason logically. Using shapes that we are all familiar with, writing proofs establishes the foundation for future computer programmers, scientists, politicians, economists, and lawyers - just to mention a few.
Piano,

Piano

I have been playing piano/keyboards (accordion, organ, synthesizers) for over 50 years. I played professionally for 20 of these years, including general business, rock, and jazz. (Currently, I am playing with a six-piece ensemble for the joy of it, with occasional "gigs" for family and friends.) I have also given private keyboard lessons (on-and-off) since 1974. My approach is to teach playing by written note, chord tablature, and ear; and I readily adjust to the student's (and their parents') preferences.
SAT Math,

SAT Math

You know you know the math. Now you need to learn to recognize it in the language that is known as SAT. And that's where I come in to help and rescue. Success is imminent - take the plunge.
Statistics,

Statistics

Statistics is one of the most useful applications of math in the world today. It is used in virtually every business, both as an evaluator of past performance and a predictor of future endeavors. As a result, so much of what drives our world is based on our understanding and implementation of statistical patterns. As a public school educator of mathematics for over 30 years, I have had the privilege of helping many students appreciate the foundations of statistics and the application of its formulas.
Study Skills

Study Skills

As a high school math teacher for over 30 years, I have successfully helped thousands of students learn how to study one of the most challenging subjects. I have also taught courses to help students prepare for standardized tests like the SAT, AP, and IB exams. Two of the most obvious keys to success are organization and practice. But I share three other lesser known skills that gets students to rise to the top of their potential. I get so much enjoyment to see their faces light up when their scores go up.

Test Preparation

ACT Math,

ACT Math

With over 30 years of experience teaching every possible public high school math course, I have learned so many "tricks of the trade" that have helped many of my students excel. This includes helping my students learn how to successfully manage the taking of tests like the ACT. In the process, my students usually overcome any fear of math and come to appreciate the wonderful applications in real life.
CBEST,

CBEST

When I entered California and decided to become certified to teach high school, mathematics, I was required to take both the CBEST and CSET examinations. I passed all four of them (CBEST and CSET I, II, and III for Mathematics) on my first attempts. The reports I received also indicated that my work was of excellent quality, especially in mathematics. In my 12 years as a high school and college instructor in California, I have taught all math courses through AP Calculus and IB Mathematics HL.
SAT Math

SAT Math

You know you know the math. Now you need to learn to recognize it in the language that is known as SAT. And that's where I come in to help and rescue. Success is imminent - take the plunge.

Ratings and Reviews

Rating

5.0 (593 ratings)
5 star
(579)
4 star
(12)
3 star
(1)
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(1)
1 star
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Reviews

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Featured review

Excellent math tutor!

Richard has proven to be an excellent math tutor. He just completed tutoring our oldest son in a college level statistics course - and brought him from lacking confidence and almost failing to very confident and getting a high "B" as his final grade. It took a lot of hard work and perseverance, and he could not have done it without Richard's patience, instruction and excellent guidance on how to study the complex materials involved in the course. Richard is also tutoring our younger son in Geometry. Only a year ago, our younger son hated math and had zero confidence in his abilities to do math well. Over the past 6 months of working with Richard, our son has completely turned around and is now doing very well and getting solid B's. He even told a friend of ours that his favorite class this year is Geometry. Wow! What makes Richard so good? Not only is he very good at math - he is very good at teaching. He seems to have an uncanny ability to adjust his style and methods to match the student's way of learning - and genuinely cares about increasing their confidence in their math abilities. He is not afraid to hold them accountable to do the work it takes to understand the material, but does so in a way that makes the student want to learn. We highly recommend Richard to anyone struggling in math.

Jennifer, 59 lessons with Richard

great teacher

‘RICHARD worked with my 16-year-old son today. As we all know pleasing a teenager is not the easiest thing to do. But when Nicholas got out of his meeting he immediately wrote me and his mother to tell us how much he enjoyed working with Richard and how much he learned in just one session. We will be working with Richard more in the future and I highly recommend him.

Chris, 2 lessons with Richard

High quality lessons, very professional

Richard is very organized and helpful. He is receptive to what the student wants to learn and makes sure that you complete your objectives. He has good ideas and strategies to employ that make things easier.

Anne, 5 lessons with Richard

Very well prepared!

Richard managed an enormous amount of content with our daughter. He was thorough, prepared, and very responsive. She needed help with concepts that were more advanced than she has managed in the past, and his guidance was helpful!

Rachelle, 1 lesson with Richard

Knowledgeable, patient and helpful math tutor

Richard has helped my son's confidence in math. Now my son enjoys his Algebra 2 class and more fully understands the concepts. We highly recommend Richard as a math tutor.

Lucy, 44 lessons with Richard

Great first lesson

Richard is a dedicated tutor who is well versed and able to utilize great examples. Make sure you are prepared to take advantage of what he has to offer. Thanks Richard!

Doug, 1 lesson with Richard

Knowledgeable and patient teacher.

Richard was able to help my son prepare for a pre-calculus test using the Wyzant video chat option. My son said the video option worked great and feels prepared for his test tomorrow.

Katie, 43 lessons with Richard

Fabulous tutor!

My daughter had been struggling all week on her Algebra II. She left tutoring feeling confident and relieved that she understood everything. Richard is very patient.

Anita, 8 lessons with Richard

First time using Wyzant

Richard was able to clarify some concepts around IB Calculus for our junior-aged child. Our child thought the session was informative and helpful. We would use Richard again if the need arose.

Ben, 1 lesson with Richard

Great tutor with my daughter!

He greatly helps my daughter with her AP math, vary patient with my teenage daughter. His desire to help his student shows in his approach. Highly recommended!

Maria, 8 lessons with Richard
Contact Richard

Response time: 1 hour

$50/hour

Richard S.'s Photo

Richard S.

$50/hour

  • No subscriptions or upfront payments

  • Only pay for the time you need

  • Find the right fit, or your first hour is free

Contact Richard

Response time: 1 hour