FAQs

How long will my child need tutoring?

This answer is going to vary based on several factors.


It is very important to me to determine the student's learning style, so that I can tailor our sessions to activities that fit best with their way of thinking and processing information.  While each student will have their own unique learning speed, I pair the knowledge about their learning style with a tutoring plan focused on making aggressive growth.  Understanding the student's learning style will allow us to work in a more focused and efficient way to make advanced progress on the targeted skills.  


The more motivated and actively involved the student is in their own learning, the better their outcome. I help students build their confidence and willingness to take risks while working independently, and I also teach them skills for self-advocacy to ask clarifying questions or ask for support when they're stuck.  Students who know themselves well as learners are more confident, capable, and motivated as they acquire new skills.

You can expect to see a learning plan that addresses the targeted skills, the projected timeline for meeting specific goals, and weekly/monthly progress reports.


Consistency and communication very much affect a student's progress.  Sometimes life, other plans, unexpected scenarios, or emergencies gets in the way of students being able to show up for their tutoring sessions. However, the more consistent we both are, the better results we will get.  I am committed to each student's success, so regular communication between the family and me as the tutor is critical to building great learning habits and achieving your student's goals.  


How does online tutoring work?

First, I begin my process by having the parent/guardian complete the tutor interest form and schedule a free consultation. Next, we schedule a diagnostic assessment to find out learning strengths and academic gaps.  After the assessment, I customize a plan for your student that will address their needs and begin meeting with him/her weekly. Every three months I reassess the student to find out what gains have been made and what changes need to be made to instruction.  You can expect weekly and monthly progress reports from me as part of this learning plan. 


How long are online tutoring sessions?

The length of the sessions are determined by: 


In my experience children in kindergarten through 2nd grade work best in 30 minute sessions.

Students in 3rd through 6th grade can accomplish more in a 60 minute session. 

At times the students’ schedules and my schedule have unique needs that determine whether a 30 minute or a 60 minute session would be better.  Each online session with Growing Minds is focused, direct, and targets the necessary skills that help students become successful at literacy and mathematics.  Frequent lessons provide students more opportunities to practice and master new skills.


Why do you teach math and literacy as a virtual tutor?

During the pandemic, many students and educators had to learn how to navigate online learning.  The unpredictability left families with the decision to send their  student back to school in-person or stay at home learning virtually.  Virtual learning became a safe space for some students because they received more individualized attention and communication with their teachers, and some families were able to get support for their students that they didn't feel comfortable otherwise providing at home.  


I was looking for a way that I could incorporate my passion for teaching while also balancing my responsibilities as a father.  Once I started teaching and tutoring online, I found that some barriers for students in the traditional classroom were eliminated in the online space, perhaps because kids are more comfortable in their own homes and have more opportunities to communicate their needs to their teacher.  I learned about myself that I can rely on my flexibility and creativity to teach students online with the same success that I have in the classroom in-person.  When I know a student's learning style and strengths, technology can be used to open up new doors for students to learn and practice their skills and gain independence.  Online learning allows us both flexibility to keep up with learning and also keep enjoying life outside of school as well.  I am able to travel and spend time with my family and my students can enjoy free time at home, spend time outdoors, participate in other activities, and travel with their families while still working consistently on their literacy and mathematics skills.


My child struggles with virtual learning, do you offer in person tutoring? Yes, I am able to accomodate different learning styles!


Rates?

We offer weekly and biweekly payment options.  Once you’re ready to get started, we can discuss how to best include literacy and/or mathematics lessons into your student's schedule.  Rates start at $60 per one hour sessions and $35 for half-hour sessions.