I graduated from Wayne State University in Detroit, MI, where I obtained both a Bachelor of Science in Education (with a major in Reading and a minor in Social Studies) and a Master of Arts in Education. My teaching career began in Michigan in 1991, where I taught middle school students in grades 6-8 across all subjects. After relocating to Arizona in 1998, I continued my teaching career at the elementary level, instructing grades 4-6. In addition to my teaching career, I pursued and achieved certification in School Guidance Counseling and Principalship. I was an educator for 20 years, including two years as an Arizona Master Teacher Mentor, where I supported new teachers in their transition into the profession. Alongside classroom teaching, I have provided private, school-based, and corporate tutoring for companies for over 35 years. As a steadfast advocate for education, particularly public education, I firmly believe that access to quality education should not be influenced by one's zip code or economic status. Having taught in both urban and suburban settings, I have consistently delivered dedicated and high-quality instruction to all my students. In order to cultivate informed, productive, and well-rounded individuals, it is imperative that everyone have access to excellent school systems. I teach/tutor with the passion that our kids deserve. While I have tutored all subjects for grades K-8, I am particularly focused and passionate about teaching reading. I believe that reading is fundamental to academic success. Strong reading and comprehension skills are crucial for performance in all academic areas. And in life. I work to enrich strengths and address areas of concern. As I tell my students, "Once you are a fluent reader, it becomes a lifelong skill that no one can take away." Having experienced my own challenges with reading during my early elementary years, I understand the importance of equipping children with the necessary tools for success.