"Dear Students and Families,

My name is Joe, and I would LOVE to help you fall in love with the wonderful subject of math! I graduated with honors from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and earned a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. I also earned a Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction teaching license for Grades 1-8. While a student at UW, I partook in many opportunities for personal and professional growth. These included two practicum semesters, methods classes in science, mathematics, and literacy, and my student teaching semester! I also continued to develop my Spanish-speaking skills. Each of these experiences helped shape me into the teacher I am today. Upon graduation, I accepted a position to teach mathematics at an urban school in my area.

For the last two years, I have taught 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students the skills and habits required to be successful in higher mathematics. We are a community of learners, all striving for one goal: academic and personal excellence. I continue to develop my teaching practices to meet the needs of diverse learners. A book I recently read, "Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics" by Dr. Peter Liljedahl, is the foundation for each of my lessons: active participation, collaborative learning, and encouraging students to build upon what they already know to take the next step in their mathematics journey.

It is my hope and vision that each student enjoys and appreciates the wonderful world of mathematics. As a young student, I appreciated the individual attention I received from teachers, my parents, and other adults who helped me grow in confidence and shaped me into the person I am today. I hope to share that same joy and love of learning with you as your math tutor. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns, or to schedule your first (or next!) lesson with me!" less...