What is your teaching philosophy?

I have taught eleven years at the college level, working with students of all backgrounds, skill sets, and aptitudes. I have also worked with San Antonio High School students for the past five years. In this time, I have learned that enthusiasm and preparation need to be cornerstones of teaching. Students cannot get excited about their studies unless their teachers are excited about them too, and a teacher who has not put the necessary time in before the lesson will not be at his or her best during the lesson. I have also learned to embrace the individuality of my students; it is my job to make them their best selves, not to try make them more like the image of the "good student" I have in my head.

What might you do in a typical first session with a student?

I would do a diagnostic test to see what skills the student has and what skills need development. I would also build a clear timetable of what work the student will do and when, so we can accurately mark future progress.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

By informing her about the available materials and methods that can help her become a better learner, and by giving her a strong foundation in skills that she can build upon.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

By creating small, achievable, and documentable goals so that students can see how far they have come and understand where they are going.