FAQ

Do you teach remotely or in-person?

Group labs are held in person. For tutoring, I can do either! While in-person tutoring is often more effective (and less prone to technical difficulties), Zoom sessions are absolutely available.

Where are in-person sessions held?

At your home or local public space. I'm based in the Santa Cruz Mountains, but as long as you're within my travel range, I'll drive to you.

How long is a standard tutoring session? What about labs?

Session length is arranged in advance, and depends on both the student and the type of instruction. For high school tutoring, I generally recommend sessions of 1.5 to 2 hours. This lets them master their current work and advance with higher level concepts that can help them succeed. Elementary-aged students have less theory to cover, and usually shorter attention spans—they tend to work best for 45 minutes to an hour.

Group labs range from 1 to 2 hours—usually 1 or 1.5.

Do you teach students with special needs?

I do, and have. Let me know if your student has any physical, emotional, or learning needs.

What COVID-19 precautions do you take?

I've been vaccinated, and have been keeping up with my booster shots. I also mask for most group classes, and sanitize materials between every class. If there are specific precautions you're concerned with, please feel free to ask.

What payment methods do you accept?

Cash, check, Zelle, or Venmo.

What standardized tests have you tutored for?

I've provided test prep assistance for the SAT, ACT, and ISEE tests, as well as most SAT subject tests.

What do you cover in group science labs?

As mentioned under Services, group labs can focus on nearly any field of science. Different sessions might cover DNA and heredity, rocks and minerals, or Newton's Laws. Each lab is personalized for the students involved, with the goal being to provide enrichment and attention beyond what standard school can offer.

The trait all labs do have in common is that they're extremely hands-on—and hopefully, fun! Those looking to focus on a specific subject can discuss the details during booking. For groups looking to arrange more long-term science lessons, I design a course of labs to their level and skills.

Are your labs ever dangerous?

As a rule, no. While some labs can incorporate components such as as lasers, fire, or volatile chemicals, these are used only with permission from all parties, and restricted to instructor demonstration for activities with risk. Whether or not a lab involves any potential hazards, students are taught to conduct themselves safely during scientific exploration.

How would you characterize your teaching style?

Student-focused. Every student has a different learning style and perspective. As a tutor, my job is to reframe the subject matter in a way that makes it accessible to them. This lets them overcome whatever challenges they might come up against, rather than just learning one method or set of facts.

As a science teacher, my job is similar—with the added bonus of getting to foster curiosity and develop student interests. It's great to hear their different questions, and even more satisfying to see them find the answers for themselves.

I have another question!

Glad to hear it! Head to the contact page, and we'll sort it out.