I graduated from Northern Illinois University in 2009 with a Bachelor's of Science in Elementary Education. In addition to my teaching certificate, I have also received my English as a Second Language (E.S.L.) endorsement and have completed coursework towards earning a Master's in this area. Since graduating in 2009, I have worked in elementary schools as a student aide, a first grade teacher, an after-school teacher, and a third grade teacher. The majority of my career has been spent teaching first grade in Rock Falls, IL, and I am currently in my fourth year of teaching third grade in Rochelle, IL. Although I enjoy tutoring and teaching all subject areas, my favorite to teach is mathematics. In my experience, students experience the most amount of pride in themselves when they grasp a math concept they have been struggling with- it is amazing to see those big smiles when they realize they understand something that was difficult at one point! I am passionate about teaching and tutoring because I truly do feel that education is the key to improving the quality of life. It is also my belief that the key to providing students with the best educational experience is building a positive relationship so they truly know that I care about their growth, both academically and personally. I strongly feel that students who know their teacher cares for them are more willing to take risks, leading to more growth! Just like each student's personality, each student's learning style and strengths are unique, and I strive to meet each student at his/her level to provide him/her with a meaningful academic experience!