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Multiple Award-Winning Educator Specializing in Writing Skills
James R.

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Hourly Rate: $85
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About James

Bio

I’m a retired Texas State Certified English Teacher with three decades of classroom and one-on-one teaching experience. I hold an Honors B.A. in English: Creative Writing from the University of Texas at El Paso and am a proud member of the Golden Key National Honor Society. My passion for helping students succeed in writing—whether academic, creative, or professional—has defined my career.

I’ve taught every level of secondary English and have helped thousands of students strengthen their...

I’m a retired Texas State Certified English Teacher with three decades of classroom and one-on-one teaching experience. I hold an Honors B.A. in English: Creative Writing from the University of Texas at El Paso and am a proud member of the Golden Key National Honor Society. My passion for helping students succeed in writing—whether academic, creative, or professional—has defined my career.

I’ve taught every level of secondary English and have helped thousands of students strengthen their writing skills, develop their authorial voice, master test compositions, and prepare for college and career readiness. I specialize in teaching students how to craft compelling essays, write emotionally charged narratives, respond to text-dependent test questions, create winning college applications, and draft strong cover letters. My students have consistently earned top scores and scholarships, and several have become published writers themselves.

I’m also a bestselling author of over 20 books, a three-time Teacher of the Year, and a two-time International Impact Award winner, and a finalist for the 2025 International Impact Author of the Year Award. I led the Scorpion Writers Guild of Horizon High School in El Paso, Texas, to international recognition that earned accolades from local, state, and federal leaders. Over 90% of the Writers Guild members were at-risk students.

My approach is individualized, encouraging, and rooted in both proven educational practices and real-world writing experience. Whether your goal is to pass a test, raise a grade, build confidence, or write with power and clarity, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

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Education

University of Texas at El Paso
English - Creative Writing
  • Licensed teacher

Policies

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Approved Subjects

Creative Writing

Creative Writing

As a Texas State Certified English teacher, I’ve taught every level of secondary English and helped thousands of students become confident, accomplished writers. Many of my students have gone on to win awards and publish books that feature original narrative writing, poetry, short stories, and persuasive essays. One standout project, Inheritance of Hate, was written by at-risk teens I mentored and includes a foreword by George Stephanopoulos, Marianne Williamson, Eugenio Derbez, and more—it’s available now on Amazon. My approach combines high expectations with creative support, helping students discover their voice and share it with the world.
Essay Writing

Essay Writing

I specialize in helping students master essay writing for academic success and standardized testing. Every year, over 90% of my students passed the composition portion of their State Test, often exceeding expectations with clear, organized, and persuasive writing. I teach students how to structure strong thesis statements, build cohesive arguments, and write with clarity and purpose. My proven methods build confidence and skill, whether for class essays, test prep, or college applications.
Grammar

Grammar

As a secondary English teacher with over 25 years of experience, grammar instruction is second nature to me. I’ve taught grammar at every high school level, helping students master everything from sentence structure and punctuation to advanced usage and mechanics. My approach is both clear and practical, making complex grammar rules easy to understand and apply. Whether you need help improving everyday writing or preparing for exams, I can guide you with proven strategies and personalized support. Trust me; this is easier than you think!
Interview Prep

Interview Prep

I have successfully coached students in preparing for scholarships, college admissions, and job interviews. I teach proven strategies for answering common and behavioral interview questions with clarity, confidence, and professionalism. My approach emphasizes authentic storytelling, strong communication skills, and body language awareness. Many of my students have secured competitive scholarships, internships, and positions thanks to their standout interviews. I'm also the author of The CKD Guarantee, a book designed for college and career prep.
Personal Statements

Personal Statements

As a College and Career Prep English Teacher, I’ve helped hundreds of students craft powerful, authentic personal statements that stand out to admissions committees. I specialize in guiding students to identify their unique stories, highlight their strengths, and write with clarity, emotion, and purpose. My students have gained acceptance and scholarships to top universities thanks to the compelling narratives we developed together. With a personalized and supportive approach, I help students turn their life experiences into standout application essays.
Proofreading

Proofreading

With over 25 years of experience as a secondary English teacher and bestselling author, I bring a sharp eye for detail and precision to every proofreading task. I’ve taught grammar, usage, and mechanics at all high school levels and guided students in polishing essays, research papers, college applications, and published works. My expertise also extends to book editing, having authored and reviewed over 20 professionally published titles. Whether you're a student, professional, or aspiring author, I can help ensure your writing is clear, correct, and compelling.
STAAR

STAAR

With over 25 years of experience as a Texas State Certified English Teacher, I have extensive expertise in preparing students for the STAAR test, particularly the reading and writing components. Each year, over 90% of my students passed the composition portion, many with commendation. I specialize in teaching students how to analyze texts, respond to short-answer questions, and craft well-organized essays under timed conditions. My approach builds test-taking confidence, strengthens critical thinking, and consistently delivers results.
Writing

Writing

With over 25 years of experience as a secondary English teacher and published author, I’ve taught all forms of writing—from persuasive essays and research papers to poetry and personal narratives. I specialize in helping students organize their ideas, develop clear arguments, and write with both power and purpose. My students have won awards, gained college scholarships, and even become published authors. Whether you're refining academic writing or exploring your creative voice, I offer expert guidance to take your writing to the next level.
SAT Writing
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Hourly Rate: $85
Contact James