B.S. in Math (CPP), M.Ed (UCLA), Taught 3 years in LAUSD

Darren C.

I've spent the past eight years helping students succeed in mathematics through private tutoring, AVID tutoring, student teaching, and three years as a high school math teacher in LAUSD. I earned my B.S. in Mathematics from Cal Poly Pomona and my Master of Education and California teaching credential from UCLA. I've taught Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, Precalculus, Statistics, and supported students in Integrated Math, giving me experience with both California's Traditional and Integrated Math pathways.

My teaching philosophy is that every student learns differently. I begin by identifying where a student's understanding breaks down, then explain concepts using real world examples, visual models, and multiple approaches until the ideas truly click. One of my favorite lessons had students record the flight of a tossed object, estimate its vertex and intercepts from video timestamps, and build their own quadratic equation before learning the algebra. By developing intuition first, students gain a much deeper understanding of why the mathematics works instead of simply memorizing procedures.

I especially enjoy working with students who are motivated but struggling because those are often the students who experience the greatest growth. I also enjoy helping students who have become discouraged with math because I understand how confidence develops through small successes. My lessons combine clear explanations, frequent checks for understanding, guided practice, and targeted homework so students build lasting problem solving skills rather than short term memorization. Whether your goal is improving grades, preparing for an upcoming course, or getting ahead over the summer, I strive to make mathematics approachable, engaging, and enjoyable.