Jonathan

As an SAT and ACT prep tutor with a strong focus on math, I work closely with students to ensure they understand not only the core content but also the strategies that make a real difference on test day. With teaching experience in both California and Nevada, I’m well-versed in the structure and requirements of these exams. I specialize in simplifying challenging math concepts like algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, breaking them down into easy-to-understand steps that build confidence and mastery. My approach combines content knowledge with practical test-taking techniques, helping students approach every question with clarity and poise.

Alongside the academic prep, I support students through the college admissions process, guiding them in setting score goals, researching target schools, and even exploring scholarship and grant opportunities. By providing insight into each school’s score requirements and financial aid options, I ensure students and families have a clear picture of the path ahead. With resources like Khan Academy, national practice exams, and tailored study plans, I give students the structure and focus they need to reach their goals effectively.

I’ve worked with a wide range of students, from those seeking a competitive edge to those who need extra support, and I’m proud of my record in helping them achieve real progress. My goal is to create a comfortable, supportive learning environment where students feel empowered and prepared—not only to reach the scores they need but also to navigate their college journey with confidence.

My tutoring style:

As a highly experienced tutor, I specialize in a wide array of subjects, including math (from basic arithmetic to advanced algebra and calculus), English (grammar, reading comprehension, and writing), and biology. Additionally, I provide focused ESL support, especially for adults and business professionals. With a robust background in education, including a Master's in Secondary Math and TESOL certification, I draw upon a diverse range of skills to support students in building both foundational knowledge and advanced understanding. My methods are tailored to each student's unique needs, emphasizing clarity, engagement, and targeted skill development.

My teaching approach combines interactive, student-centered techniques with proven strategies to boost engagement and confidence. By incorporating hands-on learning, real-world applications, and a supportive environment, I help students not only understand the material but also develop a growth mindset and lasting academic skills. I regularly assess progress and adapt my methods to ensure each student's continued development, celebrating every achievement along the way. My students consistently show significant improvements, which are reflected in their grades, self-confidence, and overall enthusiasm for learning.

Throughout my career, I've had the pleasure of working with a diverse range of students, from young learners to adults, spanning various cultural and educational backgrounds. My experience includes supporting students with special needs, English language learners, and those preparing for high-stakes exams. By fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment, I ensure that every student feels empowered to reach their full potential, regardless of their starting point or challenges they may face.

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Success story:

AP is a student I had the pleasure of working closely with. AP had big dreams of securing an overall scholarship, maintaining a stellar 4.0 GPA, and nailing an ACT composite score of 25 or higher for a local scholarship opportunity. I had the privilege of serving as AP's day teacher for his core math classes and as his private tutor for ACT test prep, specifically focusing on the mathematics section. We dove into our study sessions aiming to crack the test questions and arm AP with killer test-taking strategies that would catapult his score to new heights. Through targeted practice and in-depth concept reviews, we turned AP's weaknesses into strengths, honed his problem-solving abilities, and built his confidence one step at a time. The study sessions were simple and fundamental. We would look into test practice questions and touch base with any concepts he didn’t fully understand. If that meant going back and reviewing previous topics and working through a few sample questions until the student felt confident enough to move on, that was the task at hand. AP's dedication and hard work paid off! His initial composite score of 19 on the practice test transformed into a consistent composite score of 27 after taking the exam. It was amazing to witness his progress and see his confidence soar. AP's performance not only earned him a scholarship, but he also maintained his 4.0 GPA throughout the journey and was eventually named valedictorian at graduation. It took commitment, patience, persistence, collaborative efforts, and the power of personalized guidance and tailored strategies to achieve these outcomes.

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I am proud to say that Megan possessed a natural ability that warranted a minimum ACT score of 25. However, through our sessions, she achieved scores well beyond the competitive threshold of 30 and above. Her parents were delighted to share that Megan became calm and confident before any test, a testament to the impact our collaboration had on her overall test-taking experience. Through our focused collaboration and Megan's unwavering dedication, she not only surpassed her initial goals but also discovered a newfound belief in her abilities. The transformation in Megan's confidence and test-taking skills not only impacted her ACT score but also resonated throughout her academic journey, empowering her to excel in other areas of study. Megan's success story exemplifies the transformative power of personalized tutoring and the remarkable growth that can be achieved when combining natural abilities with targeted guidance. As Megan moves forward, armed with newfound confidence and refined strategies, I do not doubt that she will continue to achieve great things and leave a lasting impact on her academic pursuits.

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Hobbies and interests:

Tropical fish keeping/breeding and aquascaping; Gym/fitness; Cooking; Collectibles (Sports as well as Anime/Marvel materials); Sports (football, basketball, boxing, MMA, baseball, hockey, soccer)

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