Passion about teaching math.

Laird J.

For twenty-three years, I have taught high school mathematics, including AP Calculus and AP Statistics. During that time, I have also taught college-level mathematics at different colleges. My love for teaching is matched only by my passion for, and appreciation of, mathematics; I am fortunate, therefore, to be in a career that I greatly enjoy. Over the years, I have grown from a purely traditional teacher to one who employs an investigative and activity-based approach in the classroom. In addition to instructing my students in the fundamentals of mathematics, I foster problem-solving skills and emphasize critical thinking. My goal is to help students with diverse learning styles achieve competence in mathematics.

In 2004, A colleague and I established the Educational Center for the Cultivation and Enhancement of Learning (ECCEL), a learning center for students in elementary school through high school. Our premise in founding ECCEL was that students who have developed as accomplished learners make the most effective teachers. We recruited high school juniors and seniors and trained them to provide one-on-one support for younger students. With upheavals in the economy, funding for ECCEL waned. This reality, along with my desire to elevate my classroom practice, led me to pursue a master’s degree in mathematics education at City College of New York.

Over the last 5 years, I began to examine my approach to teaching AP Statistics through the lens of equity. I realized that Statistics provides an opportunity for all students with different learning ability, ethnicity, and class can excel. I recently retired from the Department of Education. I am now looking forward to working one on one with students or in small group. I believe I would bring much experience, insight, and enthusiasm to your tutoring program. I look forward to hearing from you.