Patient and Creative Ivy League Reading Tutor

Sally V.

Hi, I’m Sally. I like to build confidence and develop skills in reading.

I graduated “With Distinction” from the University of Virginia with a double major in Psychology and Art History. I interned while at UVA in the Family Counseling Center where my assignment was to tutor and mentor the youngest members of families in crisis to help stabilize the family system. I have a Master’s Degree in Organizational Psychology from Teacher’s College, Columbia University where I taught reading to both children and young adults through a University program. After graduation, as a member of the Adkins Life Skills program at TC, I prepared disadvantaged youth for job experiences. All these experiences have shown me that developing reading skills will build confidence.

Since 2019, I’ve been a substitute teacher in the Westport School system where I’ve taught Kindergarten classes to High School. Depending on the need, I’ve been either a classroom teacher, or a Paraprofessional working with individuals on specific issues. I’ve taught reading, writing, phonics, literature, and math. I’ve worked with children in their classrooms, in special designated classrooms, and after school.

Children benefit from individual attention. It’s easy to fall behind in large classrooms and Zoom classes. The power of learning with private attention comes from being able to reach children through their particular interest. This can be achieved through books, games, the computer – whatever best suits the individual. The child who loves horses will be most eager to learn to read when reading about horses. Learning will be creative and fun when tailored to the individual.

It’s also important to include parents in the process. I welcome questions, clarification, suggestions - and I’ll gladly help with homework assignments. I’m flexible about scheduling. I’ll go the extra mile to enable your child to become skillful and confident.