What does every math/science tutor need? A BA in English Literature (Brandeis ‘89) and an MA in Spanish (NYU ‘91)! Oh, and a passion for math and science that was cultivated by a loving husband. My own personal renaissance from humanities specialist to math and science tutor has been a rewarding journey.

I started as a Middle School teacher of Spanish, English and Mathematics back in the early 90s. While I loved creating an interdisciplinary curriculum and teaching it with a wonderful team, my life took some turns that landed me teaching Spanish both on television for rural Colorado high schoolers and in a live classroom for Pikes Peak State College students as well as for a K-8 program at a small Catholic School. I also served as the Education Programs Coordinator for Cheyenne Mountain Zoo where I sharpened my wildlife biology and ecology skills while creating programming for students aged 3 to adult. I also created a preschool Spanish program (a “Mommy and Me” type program) that was a source of great joy. I have used my varied experiences to become a flexible and easily adaptable person, and this is something that has served me well.

I began to tutor because the parents of former students came to me because many were facing learning challenges. I found myself rapt with the potential I saw in them but they struggled to see. I realized that helping students see the wildflowers amongst the weeds in their learning was where I was most needed. 

While I still love teaching Spanish and English, over the years I found that most of my students needed greater support in math and science than my degreed areas. Dysgraphia, dyslexia, dyscalculia and attention disorders all impeded them from having good experiences learning anything. I investigated all I could to understand the learning differences so that I could better support their needs. 

I love helping kids find their path to success — it feeds my soul. Through humor and persistence, I do all I can to engender a rebirth of not only their interest in learning but also confidence in their ability to learn at all. 

To set up a consultation, please email me at Melissa@RenaissanceWomenTutoring.com

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