Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 tutor

About Michelle

I believe that all students can improve their math skills under the right conditions and for many learners this means working in a 1:1 setting. It takes a lot of wisdom to know when you need support and to ask for it! I welcome the opportunity to provide that support.

I'm a former engineer turned educator with over 10 years of classroom teaching experience, over three years of private tutoring experience, and over five years of SAT prep experience. I recently completed my MEd from the University of San Diego. I am a certified Waldorf High School teacher and hold a Bachelor in Engineering from the Pennsylvania State University.

In my tutoring sessions, I first try to create a quiet and calm environment that makes it easy to focus. For homework help, I usually ask the students what they remember from class and then help them to fill in the gaps in their content knowledge. I can use the students notes/textbooks but I also have my own materials if needed. I usually take a visual approach to help students understand material which could include drawings and props from time to time. When helping with homework, we may work a few samples together before you complete the homework on your own. I can check it for accuracy and then practice a few more problems to ensure your understanding. I usually don't use online tools during my private sessions.

For SAT prep in math, I help students to understand the test sections, test taking strategies, as well as set and manage a study/prep schedule. Using a readily available prep book, I walk students through a thorough review of the content in small sections. In order to get familiar with the SAT style of math questions, we will do a few practice problems together in each section and the rest are assigned for homework. I can help explain to a student why they missed a problem or help them to understand the worked solutions that are in the back of the book. As it gets closer to test time, we will switch to practice tests and improving speed.

I can't wait to meet you, understand you as a math learner, and help you achieve your goals.