MY MISSION:
Empower.
As a learning specialist and private tutor, I build students’ skills & confidence so they can be enthusiastic, engaged participants in the classroom & their communities at-large.
Welcome!
I look forward to meeting your family and working to improve your child’s educational outcomes like I have done for hundreds of students in my many years of teaching.
I take great pride in my ability “to teach anybody anything” and I simply love connecting with students. Their fresh views on the world inspire me and give me strength!
Thanks for visiting,
—John
About Me
I started my teaching career as a Teach For America “Corps Member,” taking the fast track to earning a certification in Special Education (Students with Learning Disabilities, Grades 7-12) while concurrently earning a graduate degree in teaching. I had great fun teaching at a Bronx, NY public high school designed to meet the unique needs of recent immigrants and English language learners. Working at such a small school, I had the opportunity to support students in practically every subject at one time or another (Living Environment, Earth Science, Chemistry, Integrated Algebra, English 11/12, Global History, Music). I made tenure in 3 years, designed professional development and mentored new teachers as an Instructional Coach, and trained aspiring teachers as both a Partner Teacher for the New York City Teaching Collaborative and an Institute Mentor Teacher for Teach For America NYC. I am proud to be a two-time “Model Teacher,” chosen by a joint panel of the United Federation of Teachers & NYC Department of Education.
Since I left the DOE in 2018, I have focused on improving outcomes for middle and high school students across the New York City/Tristate Area. I love the intense focus and attention I am able to give students 1-on-1 and small group settings!
When I say, “I can teach anybody anything,” I mean it!
S.T.E.M.
Students can be intimidated by science and math courses when they’ve missed one of the essential “building blocks” earlier in school. I’ll find the missing piece and circle back to get them back up to speed with patience and encouragement.
Humanities
I bring structure to reading and writing with techniques to enhance reading comprehension and deepen textual analysis. I can help with planning, drafting, and revising all types of structured responses, essays, and research papers.
A.P. Classes
Even for high achievers, following a college-level syllabus is no joke. I amplify the content and mix in memory forming routines and reliable study habits suited for fast-paced academic study in high school and beyond.
High School/College Admissions
Stressed out by all the admissions essays, interviews, and the “alphabet soup” of entry exams (SHSAT, HSPT, TACHS, ISEE, SATs, ACTs, & AP Exams)? I support applicants every step of the way and lay out a clear approach to success.
My Methods
My background as a psychologist and special education teacher have prepared me to consider the “whole student,” addressing students’ academic and socio-emotional needs as one. How do I do it?
• I Foster Deep Neural Connections – I use real-world examples whenever possible and draw connections among other subjects and cultural touch-points
• I Utilize Advanced Questioning Techniques – I push students to go deeper and build on their own ideas; prompt memory/connections to guide them to the answer
• I Circle Back to Address Lagging Skills – I adapt instruction based on observations and student performance to meet needs, revisiting fundamental concepts in-the-moment
• I Motivate with Specific Praise – I encourage students by highlighting their proficiency in using particular processes/skills and emphasize focus and hard work over achievement
5-12
Grades served
I love working with Middle & High School students; in this pivotal time of adolescent development, kids zero-in on interests and build a more solid concept of self.
8+
Years in Education
I have taught in a wide variety of settings, authored professional development materials, and served as a teacher team leader and instructional coach.
5★
Average rating from parents
I take great pride in providing high quality, individualized support for every student I work with. Students always leave sessions feeling smarter and more confident.
April 2020
“
Our daughter loves working with [John] - he is organized, breaks down concepts into understandable pieces, boosts a student’s confidence and has really helped our daughter advance in math beyond the classroom.
He is responsive and flexible, which has been invaluable during the current environment.
”
BANU – Parent
Empower your student!
My consultations are always free of charge, scheduled at your convenience— any day of the week.
Thank you for reaching out!