As a dedicated educator with a Master's degree in Special Education from Virginia Commonwealth University, I have over 25 years of experience teaching students from kindergarten through eighth grade, primarily in English Language Arts and Social Studies. My teaching philosophy centers on creating supportive learning environments that foster student engagement and confidence. I am passionate about helping students build their reading and writing skills through tailored strategies, such as interactive book clubs and multimedia resources that enhance their understanding of diverse topics. I believe in the importance of connecting lessons to students' backgrounds and interests, which has proven effective in improving their academic outcomes. Outside of tutoring, I enjoy exploring literature and sharing my love for reading with my students, as I believe it is a powerful tool for personal and academic growth.