
Darlene: Arizona tutor
Certified Tutor
With over 17 years of experience as a professional educator and more than 25 years as a dedicated math tutor, I bring a deep commitment to helping students unlock their full potential in mathematics. My background includes teaching middle and high school math (8th11th grades), serving as an assistant principal at the high school level, and working as an academic dean and instructional coach for grades 512. I hold dual bachelor's degrees in Computer Engineering and Secondary Mathematics, as well as a master's degree in Educational Leadership.
I specialize in tutoring all levels of math, from foundational skills to advanced concepts, and I believe that every student can learn math at the highest level. My approach begins with identifying a student's current understanding and building from there. I'm known for my patience, empathy, and ability to craft customized problems that help students develop a holistic understanding of the content, not just how to get the right answer, but why it works.
Over the years, I've helped students with everything from daily homework to preparing for standardized state and college entrance exams. One of my strengths is recognizing the point just before a student feels overwhelmed and helping them use the tools and strategies we've developed together to persevere through challenges. I don't believe anyone is "bad at math," they just may not have had the opportunity to build their confidence and understanding in the right environment.
Tutoring is not just what I do, it's what I love. Helping students experience those "aha" moments is why I show up every day, and I look forward to bringing that same energy and support to every learner I work with.
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Undergraduate Degree: St. Mary's University - Bachelor of Science, Mathematics Teacher Education
State Certified Teacher
Outside of tutoring, I have a wide range of interests that keep me both mentally and creatively engaged. I love reading, especially thrillers and horror novels, and some of my favorite authors are Anne Rice and Stephen King. I enjoy watching movies and TV shows in those same genres. I’m also a member of both a crafting group and a running group, which give me a sense of community while fueling my passions. Photography is another creative outlet I enjoy, especially capturing landscapes, though I’ve also done weddings, graduations, maternity, and infant sessions. I love creative writing and poetry as well, which allow me to express myself in unique ways. I’m a big fan of games and puzzles that involve logic. Tetris on my Game Boy and Sudoku puzzles are longtime favorites. I also enjoy staying active by running, taking evening walks, and hiking in nature. Music is a big part of my life, and I listen to all genres, with a special love for metal and punk. All of these hobbies keep me energized, inspired, and constantly learning, just like the students I work with.
- ACT Math
- Algebra
- Algebra 2
- Grade 11 Math
- Grade 9 Mathematics
- Math
- Middle School Math
- Pre-Algebra
- Pre-Calculus
- PSAT Prep
- PSAT Mathematics
- PSAT Writing Skills
- SAT Prep
- SAT Math
- SAT Writing and Language
- Test Prep