Award-Winning Elementary Math Tutors

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Award-Winning Elementary Math Tutors

Aqsa

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Aqsa

Bachelor's (in progress)
Aqsa's other Tutor Subjects
Middle School Math
Elementary Math
Elementary School Math
High School Math

Aqsa turns early math concepts like place value, basic multiplication, and fractions into something tangible by using everyday examples kids can actually picture. Her experience coaching and mentoring younger learners means she knows how to keep sessions patient and encouraging while still pushing t...

Education

University of Central Florida

Bachelor's (in progress)

Anna

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Anna

Bachelor's
Anna's other Tutor Subjects
Arithmetic
Middle School Math
Elementary Math
Geometry

Getting multiplication facts, place value, and basic fractions right early on makes everything that comes later in math dramatically easier. Anna takes a patient, step-by-step approach to building number sense — breaking problems into smaller pieces so younger students can see the logic behind each ...

Education

University

Bachelor's

Certified Tutor

Molly

Master of Science in Education
Molly's other Tutor Subjects
1st-8th Grade math
1st-8th Grade Writing
1st-8th Grade Reading
Pre-Algebra

Place value, regrouping, and early fractions click faster when a tutor knows exactly where young learners tend to get stuck. Molly has spent three years teaching math intervention in 2nd through 4th grade classrooms, so she can pinpoint a gap in number sense and address it before it snowballs. Rated...

Education

Northwestern University

Master of Science in Education

Columbia University in the City of New York

Bachelor in Arts, History

Test Scores
SAT
1480

Certified Tutor

Asta

Bachelor in Arts in Political Science
Asta's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
College Algebra
Arithmetic
Middle School Math

Building number sense early — understanding place value, basic fractions, and the logic behind multiplication — shapes how a student thinks about math for years. Asta's experience working with younger learners across different educational systems in both Hong Kong and the U.S. gives her a practical ...

Education

University of Chicago

Bachelor in Arts in Political Science

Test Scores
SAT
1530
ACT
35

Certified Tutor

Katie

Bachelor in Arts
Katie's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
College Algebra
Algebra 3/4
Arithmetic

Building number sense early changes everything about how a student experiences math later on. Katie teaches elementary concepts like place value, basic fractions, and multi-digit multiplication in ways that emphasize understanding over rote memorization — using visual models and real-world examples ...

Education

University of Notre Dame

Bachelor in Arts

Certified Tutor

14+ years

Claire

Bachelor in Arts, Double Major: Spanish Literature; History
Claire's other Tutor Subjects
Arithmetic
Middle School Math
Elementary Math
Geometry

Early math confidence shapes everything that comes after, which is why Claire emphasizes understanding place value, basic operations, and number sense through hands-on, visual methods rather than rote worksheets. Her interactive teaching style — developed across years of language and subject instruc...

Education

The University of Texas at Austin

Bachelor in Arts, Double Major: Spanish Literature; History

Test Scores
SAT
1510
ACT
32

Certified Tutor

14+ years

Caroline

Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Caroline's other Tutor Subjects
College Algebra
Arithmetic
Multivariable Calculus
Trigonometry

Getting multiplication, division, and place value right at the elementary level shapes how a student thinks about numbers for years to come. Caroline brings patience and structure to these foundational concepts, using concrete examples — grouping objects, visual models, real-world quantities — to ma...

Education

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management

Washington University in St. Louis

Undergraduate degree

Test Scores
SAT
1560

Certified Tutor

Allen

B.A. in an interdisciplinary major focused on economics and political science
Allen's other Tutor Subjects
College Algebra
Algebra 3/4
Arithmetic
Trigonometry

Getting multiplication facts, place value, and basic fractions right at this stage matters enormously for everything that comes later in math. Allen keeps younger learners engaged by turning abstract number concepts into concrete, step-by-step reasoning they can follow — and by celebrating the small...

Education

Yale University

B.A. in an interdisciplinary major focused on economics and political science

Test Scores
SAT
1570

Certified Tutor

Matthew

Bachelor's
Matthew's other Tutor Subjects
AP Calculus AB
College Algebra
Algebra 3/4
Arithmetic

Getting fractions, long division, and place value right at the elementary level sets the trajectory for everything that comes after in math. Matthew takes a patient, step-by-step approach — showing how a problem works, then giving the student a chance to try similar ones while asking questions along...

Education

University

Bachelor's

Test Scores
ACT
34

Certified Tutor

Paula

Bachelor in Arts
Paula's other Tutor Subjects
2nd-8th Grade math
1st-12th Grade Writing
1st-12th Grade Reading
3rd-8th Grade Science

Every elementary math concept, from counting and place value up through fractions and basic geometry, is really a building block for the next one — and Paula treats it that way. She identifies exactly where a student's understanding breaks down and rebuilds from that point using hands-on strategies ...

Education

Vanderbilt University

Bachelor in Arts

Test Scores
SAT
1520
ACT
32

Meet Varsity Tutors Experts

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Edris

AP Calculus AB Tutor • +30 Subjects

I am a dedicated teacher because I am a dedicated learner and I strive to instill in my students that same passion for knowledge and mental exercise, all while improving the student's grades. My tutoring experience stretches back to when I was a high school student tutoring students younger than me in various math and science classes including SAT prep, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, precalculus, calculus, biology, chemistry, and physics. Now, as a graduate of Boston College with a degree in mathematics and economics who has completed the premedical prerequisite courses, I hope to continue my journey as a tutor. Hobbies: art, reading, writing, books, music

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Rebecca

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +48 Subjects

I am a graduate of Northwestern University where I received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Religious Studies. I am currently pursuing a masters degree in social work at the University of Chicago's School of Social Service Administration. I am passionate about tutoring because I want everyone to be able to perform academically at their highest possible level. I also think it is important that learning is not just for one assignment or one test, but rather that it sticks with you to build a solid foundation of knowledge and confidence that you can carry forward. My favorite subjects to tutor include English, SAT test preparation, math, and psychology. My approach to tutoring is to meet the student where they're at and go from there. I find that this way we can build a productive tutoring relationship where I can help individualize learning to each person's particular learning style. Outside of academic interests, I enjoy cooking, being with friends and family, traveling the world, and looking as ridiculous as possible doing Zumba.

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Rushi

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +19 Subjects

I am a student at Northwestern University in Evanston, and teaching has always been a passion of mine. From my younger brother to my years of informal tutoring experience, I have developed the skills necessary to help others become successful. I enjoy the genuine process of developing a relationship with someone and cultivating that relationship, whether it be academic, personal, or professional. I enjoy working with others towards a common goal and helping all parties be mutually successful. Hobbies: art, sports, books, reading, music, writing

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Mary

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +29 Subjects

I am a 2014 graduate of Cornell University's College of Engineering where I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Biological Engineering. I have just begun my Master's Degree in Biomedical Engineering at Drexel University. My favorite subjects to tutor include Test Prep and elementary/middle school subjects. I enjoy helping younger students so that they can be excited about learning and begin their education with a solid foundation in reading, writing, and mathematics. I believe it is important to provide students with the proper tools to succeed at a young age so that they continue to have a desire to learn for the rest of their lives. I loved my college experience and want to show high school students that with practice and diligence, they too can perform well on standardized tests and go on to the university of their choosing. To accomplish academic goals at any level, it is important for the student to have fun while learning! I personalize my teaching approach to fit the student's learning style so that he or she can easily transition from learning a concept to applying it to a given problem. The greatest reward is seeing the smile on a student's face when a topic "clicks".

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Austin

Elementary Math Tutor • +35 Subjects

Hobbies: reading, music, writing, art, books, traveling, travel, outdoors

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Jason

College Algebra Tutor • +50 Subjects

I'm a fourth year medical student at the University of Pennsylvania who is applying to pediatrics residency programs. I graduated in 2006 from Yale University with a bachelors degree in History. I subsequently completed a post-baccalaureate program at Bryn Mawr College to complete the premedical course work and matriculated into Penn's medical school. I took a year off from medical school between my third and fourth year to get a masters degree in education focusing on medical education but also learning a tremendous amount about K-12 education as well. Hobbies: art, outdoors, books, writing, reading, music

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Laura

College Algebra Tutor • +37 Subjects

I am a graduate of Princeton University, class of 2014. I received my Bachelor of Arts in History with a focus on recent American economic history. I was a pre-med, molecular biology major for my first two years at Princeton, and while I ended up deciding not to pursue a career in the sciences, I took many science classes in high school (AP) and in college, and still enjoy these subjects. Since graduating from Princeton, I have moved to Manhattan where I have started a job as an analyst at a private equity firm. I tutored professionally in Princeton for three years, and am excited to continue working with students as a Varsity Tutors tutor. I have experience tutoring elementary school math, Algebra, Algebra II/Pre-calc, English literature, writing (esp. essay editing), Biology (including AP), Chemistry (including accelerated and AP), SAT, and French (through French III). My own educational experience has had a formative impact on my style as a tutor. I attended a Montessori school from pre-school through 8th grade, and was heavily influenced by the focus on independent learning, discovery, and exploration as a way to develop a more thorough and better understanding of academic subjects. I am passionate about making sure that students enjoy what they are learning, and I try to individualize tutor sessions to match the specific needs of each student. Both my parents are teachers (one a violin teacher and another a professor), which has also influenced my ability and desire to help students learn.

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Catherine

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +42 Subjects

I am a graduate student in the humanities who is lucky enough to teach, read, and write for a living. I am passionately committed to educational access and helping young people reach their full potential. It has been my privilege to work with dozens of bright and talented students over the years, ranging from fifth grade to university level. I especially enjoy helping students with test prep and am qualified to teach all sections of the SAT and GRE, including math. I would also love to tutor in history, literature, and writing. Hobbies: reading, cooking, music, running, art, travel, books, writing

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Natalie

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +42 Subjects

I'm a second-year student at Rice University majoring in Biochemistry and Cell Biology as well as in English. My unusual double major is a result of my inability to choose a favorite subject--I love literature and science! This love of learning translates naturally to my role as a tutor. Because I love learning, I look for ways to transmit my passions to others by teaching them. Another reason I enjoy tutoring lies in my own experience as a student. I had to work very hard for the grades it took to get to college, so I understand the problems of the struggling student, and I try my best to relate the methods I personally used to overcome those obstacles. Hobbies: reading, writing, books, music, yoga, art

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Jean

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +57 Subjects

I am a fourth year student at Harvard Medical School, and will start working as a pediatrician in July of 2016. However, if I had not decided to become a physician, I would have strongly considered becoming a teacher. Teaching is one of the most enjoyable activities I do, and I have taught in some capacity every year for the past ten years. I have taught subjects ranging from English to algebra, from physics to dance, and have taught students ranging in age from toddlers to adults. I have also provided advice on application essays, resumes, and interview strategies for Harvard College students applying to highly competitive scholarships. Each of these experiences has taught me how to communicate concepts in clear and engaging ways. For instance, while tutoring adolescents enrolled in the Boston-based Artists for Humanity program, I would often teach students whom I had never worked with before, and thus became adept at quickly discovering and implementing the strategies that worked best for a particular student (e.g., visual/tactile examples, analogies, and breaking down complex problems into smaller parts). While tutoring a janitorial staff member in preparation for the mathematics portion of her GED high school equivalency exam, I learned how to quickly identify the highest yield topics for a standardized exam and focus our efforts on those. Each of these experiences has been incredibly rewarding, and has inspired me to teach in some capacity throughout my career as a doctor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Procedural understanding means knowing the steps to solve a problem (like the algorithm for long division), while conceptual understanding means knowing *why* those steps work. Many elementary students can follow steps but struggle when problems look different or when they need to apply skills in new situations. A tutor helps bridge this gap by using visual models, manipulatives, and real-world examples to show students the reasoning behind the math—so they can tackle unfamiliar problems with confidence rather than just memorizing rules.

Word problems require students to translate language into mathematical operations, identify what information matters, and decide which strategy to use—multiple layers of thinking at once. Many students focus on finding numbers and plugging them into operations without understanding the problem's structure. Tutors help by teaching students to break problems into manageable steps: reading carefully, visualizing the situation (with drawings or diagrams), identifying the question being asked, and then choosing an appropriate strategy. This systematic approach builds confidence and helps students see word problems as solvable puzzles rather than confusing text.

Showing work isn't just about getting credit on tests—it's a thinking tool that helps students catch their own mistakes and explains their reasoning to others. Many elementary students rush through problems or rely on mental math without recording steps, which makes it hard to find errors or learn from them. Tutors model how to write out work clearly, explain why each step matters, and use "showing work" as a problem-solving strategy rather than a chore. When students see that organized work actually helps them solve harder problems, they're more motivated to develop this habit.

Math anxiety—the worry or fear that builds around math—can actually interfere with memory and problem-solving ability, creating a cycle where anxious students perform worse and become more anxious. This often starts when students feel rushed, don't understand concepts, or internalize the belief that they're "not a math person." Tutors create low-pressure environments where mistakes are learning opportunities, celebrate effort and progress, and help students experience success with manageable challenges. Over time, this rebuilds confidence and helps students see themselves as capable mathematicians.

Elementary math can feel like disconnected topics—addition, fractions, measurement, geometry—when students only learn procedures in isolation. Strong tutors help students recognize that multiplication is repeated addition, that fractions are parts of a whole (just like division), and that area and multiplication are connected. By drawing these connections explicitly and using consistent visual models across topics, tutors help students build a coherent understanding of math rather than a collection of separate tricks. This deeper web of connections makes new topics easier to learn and helps students retain skills longer.

Elementary math programs vary significantly—some emphasize traditional algorithms, others use "new math" or Singapore Math approaches, and schools may use different textbooks with different visual models and terminology. A good tutor learns how your child's school teaches math and reinforces those same methods and language, so there's consistency between tutoring and classroom instruction. This alignment prevents confusion and helps students feel confident using what they've learned in tutoring when they return to class. Tutors can also bridge gaps if a student missed key concepts or struggled with their school's particular approach.

Yes—tutors personalize instruction to meet students where they are. For struggling students, tutors slow down, use concrete models and manipulatives to build foundational understanding, and break skills into smaller steps. For advanced students, tutors introduce deeper problem-solving, challenge them with multi-step or open-ended problems, and explore enrichment topics that extend beyond grade-level curriculum. In both cases, the goal is helping students develop mathematical thinking and confidence, not just moving through material faster or slower.

Multi-step problems require students to plan a sequence of operations, keep track of intermediate results, and stay organized—skills that don't develop automatically. Tutors teach explicit strategies like underlining important information, drawing diagrams to visualize the problem, breaking it into smaller questions ("What do I need to find first?"), and checking each step before moving forward. They also help students choose appropriate tools—mental math for simple steps, written calculations for complex ones—so students feel in control rather than lost in a maze of numbers.

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