Though I use a variety of approaches in my tutoring, I am constantly trying to utilize methods and approaches that empower students and provide challenging paths so they will take ownership for their learning. Though I understand part of a teacher's effectiveness today is being entertaining and creative (I'm not beyond using a bag of tricks and occasional sleights of hand to instill some humor - a vital tool to turn on young minds!), I try to challenge students with original points of view while providing supportive assistance and personal attention to meet their individual needs.

Mark Twain once said "I never let education get In the way of my learning." I believe learning, as much as possible, should be empirical (hands-on, relevant, holistic (wholistic!) and practical). Besides academic classroom knowledge, students need to develop and demonstrate stronger understanding of the value of trust, dedication, sportsmanship, respect, and love. I believe that students need to learn more about themselves, about others and about how to communicate and cooperate more effectively. I believe students need to learn more than how to get good grades or how to get into college; they need the life skills and principles that will enable them to develop into fully functioning, contributing, responsible and independent thinkers and members of our society.

Many thanks. You have done a phenomenal job with Ari and Zak with their test-taking strategies. I would like to give Kimi the benefit of your sessions. I recommend you highly. - Mita S. Greenwich, CT parent

"I believe the help that you provided for the writing section has enabled her to be more confident in her writing. She definitely feels more at ease and produced some great writing pieces for her English class at the very end of the year enabling her to receive an A for the marking period. Taylor increased her score 50 points in Writing. This was due to the terrific support she received from you. Taylor and I can not thank you enough for all of your time and effort. Your service is wonderful." - Joanne L, mother of high school junior in Fairfield CT.

"Thank you for your positive attitude and open communication with me. Your time, expertise and encouraging way is much appreciated." Beth - (mother of high school senior in Fairfield)

"We just got Scott's SATs yesterday. He improved to a 640 in Verbal. He feels you really helped him." Karen - parent of 11th grader from New Canaan

"First, I want to thank you for your detailed email about your work with Jesse so far. We are pleased with what you wrote and also with his diligence and response to working with you. Already I can see you are a tremendous help to him. I think the work you have done has given him greater confidence in the classroom.” Stephanie - mother of high school sophomore at Staples HS

"Thank you very much for helping me prepare for the Writing SAT 2. I just received my scores from the test. I received a 700, a significant increase over my previous score of 620. Your tutoring definitely helped my essay writing, and I am very thankful.” Jeff" (junior - Ridgefield High School)

"Thank you for the time and continued effort in working with Blake. The time you spent with him has certainly helped him adjust to this new academic environment. We will definitely keep in touch and most certainly look toward your assistance with the SAT's. Thank you, Shelley"

"Great news! Matt just called from Venice to tell me he has been accepted at Groton - he is so excited. I want to thank you for your important part in his being accepted. You were great with him, and I do believe you were a big reason he got in. Matt wants to E-Mail you himself, but asked me to go ahead first. Best regards!" Furita – Greenwich grandmother of 8th grader who lives in France