When I first heard the phrase "reluctant learner," I was totally confused. Then, as I looked back at my professional career , I could remember many a student who entered my classroom a shy, timid and reluctant child. Their inability to achieve academic success was routed in many facets of their personality and learning style. I quickly realized that it was one of my responsibility to unlock their learning potential and adjust my curriculum to fit their needs.

The year that I retired as a full time classroom teacher, "Sam" would have been in my class. I had taught Sam's adult uncle many years before and I knew his family very well. Sam struggled for two years, each year and during each of those years, was recommended for retention. This was not an option for Sam and and his family so they called and asked if I could tutor him over the summer. (between 1st and 2nd grade). Being shy it took Sam several days to trust me and show me his potential. Armed with successful strategies I learned during my tenure as a independent tutor for the the Stratford CT Scientifically Based Reading Instruction program, I began to instruct Sam, twice a week. Sam quickly became a confident and enthusiastic reader. In six weeks of instruction he not only reached, but surpassed his academic goals. He entered second grade on grade level. Now Sam is is a happy, confident and successful fifth grader.

Elementary Level Reading Tutor

Elementary Reading/Phonics Tutor