Paul

Certified Tutor

Everyone is a learner, and everyone can learn--even when it seems impossible. As a tutor, I help students learn to use their strengths and to acquire resources and strategies to become more successful as learners.

Much of my experience has been in schools for students receiving special education services and for students who struggle in traditional school environments. I also have worked extensively with people who wish to be more fluent in English.

A top priority of mine is for students to be comfortable working with me as they study and learn. They can trust that I have their best interests in mind, that I am sensitive to how they feel about learning new skills and information. I help them problem-solve and develop a set of strategies to make learning easier.

A little about my background:
Prior to college, I lived 14 of my first 18 years in Cameroon. We lived in a region that uses French as its official language. As a result I became fluent in both French and English during those years. We lived among other English-speaking families, but I did spend time interacting with other children and adults who spoke languages local to the area. French was the language we used for conversation.

Since those early years of my life, I unfortunately have been out of touch with French and am no longer bilingual. However, I continue to be interested in the power of language and the impact communication continuously has on our lives.

After high school, I earned a BA degree from St. Olaf College, and then a Master of Arts degree from University of Minnesota. I received licenses to teach students with special needs and licenses to be an administrator in high schools and special education programs.