Mandi

I am a life-long learner who has been tutoring since 2006. I taught in the PK-12 setting, with experience teaching & supporting a variety of subjects with a wide variety of learners. I have an MA in Mathematics Education and a BA in Elementary Education & Special Education. I have a graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis, and I specialize in precision teaching – a structured method that focuses on improving fluency and accuracy in specific skills.  I am a literacy and math coach by training, with a toolbox full of assessments and activities to find missing skill knowledge and fill in any knowledge gaps we find.

My tutoring style:

I follow CASEL’s 3 signature practices for engagement - Inclusive Welcome, Engaging Strategies, and Intentional Close. I work with students to co-create session goals to guide our learning during the session and for the long term. I am a visual learner and I use lots of drawings and imagery in my explanations. I like to make the learning experience fun and engaging for the learner. Usually, if the student isn’t enjoying the tutoring session, neither am I. My goal is to create a safe-space where learners feel comfortable to ask questions and make mistakes- that’s how growth happens!
‍

Success story:

One of my first students with Learner was in middle school and struggling in their math class. They had fallen far behind during the pandemic and had stopped participating in their math class at school. We got into a rhythm and found activities that were both meaningful and engaging for the student. Just over a year later, they are flying through class assignments and have developed the confidence to ask questions in class. Watching this learner’s confidence grow as they became stronger with math skills is an experience I am grateful to be part of.

‍
Hobbies and interests:

I’m an animal lover and have an eclectic group of pets that sometimes visit tutoring sessions. I volunteer in animal rescue and help rescue, vet, and train homeless pets so they can find a forever home. When I have time, I love to read mysteries and listen to audiobooks. I like a wide variety of music styles and dabble in playing a few instruments as well. I am a very creative person and I enjoy drawing, painting, and too many other types of crafts to list here!