What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe, as a teacher, it is my responsibility to partner with my students to find the best way to help them learn. Knowing that each student is an individual and approaches tasks differently means I must treat them as the unique people they are.

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

We always have to get to know each other a bit with some questions to put each other at ease, but we are also there to work and learn. I want the learning environment to be comfortable for my students, so I want them to understand how much I enjoy working with them. I also need to know what struggles they are having from their perspectives so we can address those right away. I want my students to experience success.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Socratic questioning leads to independence. I do not give answers away; I lead my students to the answers and help them work toward solutions.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Success breeds motivation. We have to be in a cycle of challenge and success to keep students interested and motivated.