Katrina
Certified Tutor
I am a special education teacher with a passion for individualizing instruction to meet the unique set of needs for each student I work with. I have experience working with students in grades 3-7, specifically focusing on mathematics, English language arts, including reading comprehension, fluency, accuracy, and writing. I have experience working with students with learning disabilities, speech and language impairments, ADHD, emotional disturbances, hearing/vision impaired, and students on the spectrum.
I believe education should be tailored to meet the needs of each student as an individual. One size does not fit all, and an effective teacher understands the importance of differentiating lessons to ensure students are successful. I believe it is important to develop a strong relationship with each student I work with, and I care for each student with whom I teach.
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Undergraduate Degree: Nazareth College of Rochester - Bachelors, Inclusive Education
Graduate Degree: American College of Education - Current Grad Student, Integrated Curriculum-Special Education
- Arithmetic
- College English
- Elementary Math
- Elementary School Math
- English
- High School English
- Homework Support
- Math
- Middle School Math
- Other
- Phonics
- Reading
- Special Education
- Study Skills
- Study Skills and Organization
- Summer
- Writing
What is your teaching philosophy?
Education needs to be tailored to the unique needs of each student. A one size fits all approach is not an effective method of teaching, and instruction needs to be differentiated to meet the needs of each individual student. An effective teacher will have a true understanding of their student's learning style, personal interests, and needs.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
In a first session with a student, it is important to develop a level of comfort and tap into their personal interests. From there, I would look at their unique set of needs, and make specific connections to their interests, needs and learning style to plan an instructional plan to ensure they can be academically successful.
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
It is important to build each student's self-esteem and encourage them to take risks as they are learning. I always emphasize the importance of trying your best and persevering through difficult tasks.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
I would tap into their learning style and interests to help them stay motivated. I would also ensure we had an open, honest relationship in which they felt comfortable coming to me if they weren't feeling engaged or encouraged.
If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?
I would attempt to teach the student the same skill or concept in another way. For example, through the use of a manipulative, or drawing.
How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?
I would directly practice close reading strategies with students. I would teach the specific strategies, practice the strategies with the student, and slowly scaffold the assignments so the student would utilize the strategies independently as they became more confident and comfortable.
What strategies have you found to be most successful when you start to work with a student?
Developing an honest and caring relationship with the student.