TUTOR SPOTLIGHT — RUTH

“Teaching is a love, compassion,

and duty that I am compelled to do.”

— Ruth

When families call our office to find a tutor, many ask if the tutors are certified teachers. My response is always the same — many tutors are current or retired teachers. But I always add one more thing — “Some of the best tutors are not licensed teachers.”

While classroom experience is definitely important, private tutoring is its own ballgame. Families seek tutors to provide one-on-one support for their student. When you’re working with only one person, it’s less about how you manage a full classroom and more about your subject knowledge.

Charles knew early on that he liked math. A class in Abstract Algebra was his first higher level class. “After taking it,” he said, “I wanted to study as many topics in higher math as I could.” Charles received his degree in mathematics at Case Western Reserve, where he served as president of both their Math Club and their chapter of Pi Mu Epislon — the national math honors society.

While still working as an undergrad, Charles assisted professors with other math classes. He also ran a number of recitations and did some tutoring on his own.

One pivotal experience helped Charles realize a personal calling:

Ruth recently attended training with NCES and is now certified to teach the Richards Learning Systems ® program. This weekend, she will be attending our training for the Real Life Ma+h program.

In addition to classroom teaching and private tutoring, Ruth has been involved in many other programs. She tutored for a therapeutic reading program, has supervised other tutors, and was the advisor for many high school student organizations. One of her most rewarding experiences was helping struggling students pass the Ohio Graduation Test. “Many of the students experienced ‘failure syndrome’,” said Ruth, “and simply felt that they could not pass.”

Ruth is highly dedicated to her students and enjoys tutoring through North Coast Education Services. “I really like the professionalism of the staff and how students’ needs are met.” She adds, “Textbooks and materials are immediately provided for students.”

In her spare time, Ruth volunteers for her church and a local elementary school. She enjoys walking with her husband and their neighbor, practices yoga, and meditates. A mother of three, Ruth also has been blessed with three granddaughters.