Christopher: Schiller Park tutor

Certified Tutor

The importance of a solid mathematics education goes beyond just improved test scores. I use the word, "mathematics," frequently but, never until recently had I thought about the actual meaning of the word.
The word, "mathematics," has at least two interesting literal definitions in two ancient languages. In Greek, the root of mathematics means, "learning." In Hebrew, it's root is "thinking." They tell us that mathematics gives us the critical ability to learn and think logically in any field of endeavor. It is more important than knowledge, which is so readily available on the Internet.

I believe that all students have the capacity to understand mathematics under the right conditions. I reach my students by helping them develop a deeper understanding of important concepts so that the process has context and connections can be made between what has been learned with new ideas and skills recently introduced.

I am a graduate of Boston University and the University of Massachusetts. I have training as a learning specialist and often work with students struggling with language based learning differences, ADHD, or executive function challenges. My work experience includes teaching math and English at both private schools as well as public schools. In addition, I have experience teaching within international schools in Europe and the Middle East. I have more than twenty years experience as a classroom based math teacher for grades 6-12. In addition, I have worked as an academic tutor and mentor for middle and high school students. Over the last few years, I have extended my practice and work with student athletes at Duke University as both a mentor and learning specialist.

I have experience as a learning specialist with a focus on all middle school and high school math courses. In addition, I have worked as a college advisor and prepared students for both the SAT and ACT exams. While I do love teaching all things related to math, I also am passionate about teaching writing and high school English. In addition, I have a deep background tutoring US History and Civics at both the middle school and high school level.

As a learning specialist, I believe it is essential to develop a strong partnership between myself and the student. The best way that I can succeed with my clients is to understand who they are as a person as well as who they are as a student. It is important that our relationship is based upon trust and a willingness to work together for common goals. I am always working towards the goal of helping my students become independent learners. I do not want my clients to use me as a crutch. I want them to see me as someone who will help them to walk on their own again.

My ability to work with students across disciplines has been an added benefit for those families who choose to work with me. I care about what I do because I believe that all students can learn--they just need to be the right person using the right teaching strategy at the right moment for the magic to happen.

In addition to my work as an educator, I am also a father and have been married for fifteen years. We love to travel and explore different parts of the world. My favorite place to spend time is in East Africa. When I am not traveling, I love to SCUBA dive. When I am not factoring equations, I can often be found in a corner reading a great mystery or political thriller. Otherwise, you can find me coaching my son's team at the nearest basketball courts or I can be found teaching lacrosse.

I look forward to working with you soon!