"I am currently a student at San Diego Mesa College, where my coursework has strengthened my foundation in mathematics and the way children learn it. I have completed college-level math and education-related classes that focus on breaking big ideas into smaller, understandable steps, using multiple representations (visual models, number lines, and manipulatives), and checking for understanding as we go. I do not yet hold a teaching credential, but I am actively developing the skills and professionalism needed to support students and communicate clearly with families.

My teaching approach is patient, encouraging, and very structured. I start by finding out what the student already knows and where they begin to feel stuck. Then I teach through guided practice: I model one example, we do one together, and the student tries the next one while I coach. I use simple language, real-life examples, and “think-alouds” so students learn the steps and the reasoning behind them. I also focus on confidence-building—celebrating small wins, correcting mistakes gently, and helping students develop strategies they can use independently.

Most of my experience is working one-on-one with elementary and middle school students in an informal setting, helping with homework, test review, and core skills like place value, multiplication, fractions, and word problems. I also have experience explaining concepts to peers and younger students in a supportive, tutoring-style context. Over time, I’ve learned that consistency and clear routines make the most significant difference, so I aim to make each session calm, focused, and productive while keeping students motivated." less...