Licensed Teacher, M.A.Ed. | Grades 3–8 Reading, Writing & Math

William P.

I am a Virginia-licensed elementary educator entering my seventh year of classroom teaching, with experience teaching both fourth and fifth grades. I earned my M.A.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in K–6 education from William & Mary. I spent six years teaching in a Title I public elementary school and am now joining the fourth-grade faculty at an independent Episcopal school. Since 2023, I have also provided online tutoring through Sylvan Learning.

I tutor reading, writing, and mathematics for students in grades 3–6. My literacy background includes structured phonics instruction using UFLI, morphology training through IMSE, and experience using DIBELS and MAP data to identify students’ specific strengths and learning needs. In writing, I help students develop ideas, organize their thinking, strengthen sentences, and revise with confidence. In mathematics, I emphasize conceptual understanding, clear models, and step-by-step problem solving rather than memorizing procedures without understanding them.

My approach is calm, encouraging, and individualized, with high expectations and plenty of patience. I begin by determining what a student understands, where confusion begins, and which explanation or representation will make the concept accessible. Students learn best when they feel seen, heard, safe, and valued, so I work intentionally to build trust while helping them become more independent and confident learners.