Friday, February 28, 2014

What's in my "Tutor's Gig Bag"? Additions


What's in my "Tutor's Gig Bag"?  
Additions




Whiteboard and Dry Erase Markers
Thanks and Shout out to Candice Renaker,  I've added a mini-whiteboard and some dry erase markers.  The two markers in the picture are actually an eraser and marker holder in one!  I think it was only $3.99 plus tax.  I'm not sure how much it helps learning, but it sure does improve engagement.  There's something to students and using dry erase markers.  It does cut down on paper use.

Division Flash Cards
Another interesting item I picked up were these division flashcards that I picked up at the dollar store.  I'm not sure why I picked up dollar store items...maybe I was having a cheap moment.  Either way, they help, but I'm not sure if I'm going to keep them in my bag.  There's only 36 cards, both double sided for a total 72 cards.  In addition, it only goes up to the 10's.  So the highest card is 10 divided by 10.  That's a little frustrating, but at a dollar, I guess i can't complain too much.

Let me know what Items you have in your bag!

Thursday, February 27, 2014

What would you do? The Case of the Man and Passing Gas

What would you do?  

So I'm tutoring at the public library.  The public library offers many great perks.  It's relatively quiet, there's usually a lot of space, and it's safe.  On the other hand, the public library offers sanctuary to all sorts of people.  In our largest library, many homeless individuals seek refuge from the weather, use the bathrooms, and read books.  As an individual patron, this doesn't bother me.  As a tutor with a minor, however...well that's another question.  But the homeless population has never been an issue for me and my clients.  I'm not sure why I'm ranting on about it.

When I'm with my clients, I keep them next to me all the time if they're under age.  I escort them to the restroom and wait for them to come out.  It gets kind of difficult when I have to leave my iPad and laptop on the table while my client uses the restroom.  Probably, the weirdest thing I've seen was a man coming out of the elevator with a batting helmet, life vest, and a huge cart full of random things.  Even my client was shocked.

Anyways, back to my original topic:  At the table next to us, there was an older gentleman (gentleman is hardly the word) that kept "passing gas".  It was more loud than anything, no smell.  So a couple questions for you out there...

1.  Has this happened to you?
2.  How would you respond to this situation?

Let me know what you think or have experienced!


Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Tools on The Web - 4teachers.org

Hi Everyone!

It's hard to believe that this is my 17th post. My goal is to go 5 days a week, Monday-Friday for posting. So far, I've only missed one day!

Today's featured website is www.4teachers.org. This site is amazing. While it says 4teachers.org, it's really a free resource for tutors as well. It allows you to create quizzes and rubrics in both English and Spanish. The site consists of many resources that are worth your time.





QuizStar is an online test creation and student assessment module. It is a part of the www.4teachers.org world. This is a great tool for a tutor!  Often, I need to quiz my students based on previous lessons.  Sometimes using this tool can be lengthy in process, but the end result are quick and easy to gather and maintain.  Typically, I use ExamView to create assessments.  However, there is not a free test portal that I can use.  QuizStar fills that missing link!  Best of all, it's free!!!

Check it out here:  http://quizstar.4teachers.org/

I hope this helps.  Quizstar is definitely worth your time.  Make sure that you at least bookmark 4teachers. org!



Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Legalities and Business: Invoicing

Hi Everyone! I hope everyone's week got off to a good start.  Today's Legalities and Business post is about invoicing.

An invoice (bill) is a document that is given to the seller from the buyer.  This document tells everything you need to know about the transaction including service, products, price, rate of pay, etc that the seller provides.  Details including payment terms, taxes,discounts,  and company information are usually listed on this document.  Think of it as a credit card statement!

Here's one quick and easy Invoice to use:

Simple Invoice

My advice is to keep it simple and to the point when it comes to tutoring.  If you don't want to use excel or don't feel comfortable using excel you can try some commercial programs.  I've used Paypal to create Invoices.  These invoices are easy to use, easy to understand, and actually allow the customer to pay by clicking on the invoice by paypal account or credit card.  You can't go wrong there!  Programs like Quicken also provide an invoice option.  I'm not as good with this program, so it's hard for me to say if you should use it.


Some clients want invoices for their records.  Invoices help me track my earnings and help my client.  Not every client wants an invoice, but I 'll always have one on record for them.

So should you use invoices?  Yes.  It serves as a record of service!  In the long run it protects you!

Monday, February 24, 2014

The Tech Savvy Tutor - 2/24/14

Hi Eveyone!  Today's Featured Tech Tool is a site that I've used since I was in the classroom.  Originally, I used the rubric creation tool called rubristar.  It was very helpful back then.  Since then, the site has grown in popularity and effectiveness.  

I know you're thinking..."But, I'm a tutor...not a Teacher".  The truth is that it doesn't matter because this site has a lot of useful tools.  You can create online quizzes, rubrics and classroom calendars.  The online quiz aspect can be very helpful and it's free!







I copied and pasted this description from the website:

4Teachers.org works to help you integrate technology into your classroom by offering online tools and resources. This site helps teachers locate online resources such as ready-to-use Web lessons, quizzes, rubrics and classroom calendars. There are also tools for student use. Discover valuable professional development resources addressing issues such as equity, ELL, technology planning, and at-risk or special-needs students.





Friday, February 21, 2014

Friday What's in my "Tutor's Gig" Bag?

Hi Everyone!

I knew that when finished the Tutor's Gig Bag I had left some things out.  I listed my ten most important.
Yesterday, I added a few more things.  While they're not essential, they are very helpful



In the first picture I have 3 items.  The first is multi-colored pens.  This is very helpful for me when I'm explaining concepts to students.  The second item are paper clips.  Third, is the little box that I got them in.  I got the box and the paper clips at Staples for only $1.00 on clearance.  Staples and Office Depot always have a clearance section...I always find awesome deals on awesome teacher/tutor items.

The fourth item is "card stock" Paper.  I got a multi-colored pack with about 150 sheets (I think) for $9.99.  I use these for foldables with my clients that are hands-on learners.  Parents love these by the way!

So those are my add-ons for this post.  I think I'll continue to post on Friday - What's in my "Tutor's Gig" Bag?

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Tools for Tutors Found around the Web

Hello!  Today's post features "Tools for Tutors that I found around the web!"

There are many bloggers out there that share their ideas freely.  Some of them are really good and I want to share them with you!

Today's Feature Blog is:

Teaching in Room 6


Teaching in Room 6

One of my favorite Simplifying Fractions Activities!

Click Here
Simplifying Fractions

I had some time to read the blog and try out some of the suggested activities with a client.  I had a client struggling with the traditional method of finding fractions.  Stephanie's suggestion and model helped my client to better understand the process and become better at the process!  Honestly, it was a life saver!

 I am really impressed with the knowledge and details of the blog.  Please check out Stephanie's Site.  It's definitely worth the time!

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Legalities & Business: The Need for a Contract

Legalities & Business:  The Need for a Contract
Judge Judy is one of my favorite T.V. judges.  She treats people horribly and people let her.  Whatever the issue is, it's typically under $5,000.  It doesn't seem worth it to me.  One of the most common things I hear her say is "Did you get it in writing?" and "Did you have a contract" or a "Bill of Sale".  She's asked this question in many different forms while mocking the individual for failing to have it.

A contract is your first line of defense in the tutoring world.  It lays the ground rules by which you and your client will operate from.

Here are some examples of tutoring contracts:

Tutoring Contract #1
Tutoring Contract #2
Tutoring Contract #3
Tutoring Contract #4
Tutoring Contract #5

So there you have it!  5 Examples that you can use, modify, or model from.  You have no excuse!  Look, even with friends that I tutor, I still have them fill out a contract...just in case.  So some of you might be thinking..."I'll just let it go and not work with them anymore.  That's the end of that!"  Think again!  You might let it go, but you're client might not.

*I didn't create these contracts.  As with all items related to the legal issues of your business, you should always get items checked out by a trusted lawyer.

Here's how important Contracts are:

Student Sinks Miraculous Shot, Celebrates, and loses $10,000 



Monday, February 17, 2014

The Tech Savvy Tutor - 4 Resources to Help You Stay Ahead of Your Competitor

The Tech Savvy Tutor  
4 Resources to Help You Stay Ahead of Your Competitor

My first client was a referral from a friend.  The only thing tech related was the phone I was using.   As my number of clients increased (even to 3) I realized I needed some help.  Certain clients wanted to pay in cash, while others payed by PayPal.  Clients liked being able to communicate through phone and texting, while others liked e-mail.  And with 3 clients and 3 different subjects, I sometimes got confused as to what I was bringing with me during my next session.

Here are some of my tools that I have tried or currently used to operate as a tutor:

1.  Tutors Office - My first tutor management program.  It's simplistic and easy to operate.   They offer it for free for a trial period.  Then it's only $5.95 and up depending on the number of clients.  They offer tools for tutos to include calendar scheduling, student management, payment management, invoicing, expensing, and tax reporting.   They're definitely worth your time to check out.


 Tutor's Office Website


2.  Tutors Nirvana - This is my current tutor management program.  It offers a good rate including a 30-day free trial.  I find it to be an excellent portal to your clients.  Like Tutor's Office, they offer a calendar, scheduling, potential client contact portal, student/family management, payment/expense management, invoicing and other great features.  It also offers a list of recommended tutors in which you'll be listed.  Your recommendations from clients will be posted here.  That is, primarily, why I made the switch.  The profile lists a summary of my experience and allows potential clients to link up with me.

3.  Pay Pal - While Tutor's Office and Tutor's Nirvana offer invoicing capabilities, I like to go with Paypal.  I use to sell and buy regularly on eBay and I have grown accustomed to PayPal.  What I like best is the ability of paypal to take credit card payments.  Of course there are fees that you have to pay, but it's small.  It's even easier to get payment if the client has PayPal.  Creating an invoice is also a lot easier.



4.  ALEKS - One of my favorite math tutorial sites is www.aleks.com.  From their website:



"Assessment and LEarning in Knowledge Spaces is a Web-based, artificially intelligent assessment and learning system. ALEKS uses adaptive questioning to quickly and accurately determine exactly what a student knows and doesn't know in a course. ALEKS then instructs the student on the topics she is most ready to learn. As a student works through a course, ALEKS periodically reassesses the student to ensure that topics learned are also retained. ALEKS courses are very complete in their topic coverage and ALEKS avoids multiple-choice questions. A student who shows a high level of mastery of an ALEKS course will be successful in the actual course she is taking.
ALEKS also provides the advantages of one-on-one instruction, 24/7, from virtually any Web-based computer for a fraction of the cost of a human tutor."

But wouldn't it replace you?  No, not really.  It provides what I can't to the client.  Extra hours, extra practice for a low price.  I'm still needed to explain concepts that the program can't.  I typically recommend this program when I identify a student that is really far behind in math and needs more than 2 sessions a week.  It's only $20.00 per month.

Well, that's it for today.  I'll bring new resources every Monday to Help you stay ahead of the competition.--Randall



Friday, February 14, 2014

Have a Great Weekend! See you on Monday!

Hey Everyone!!! Happy Friday!  I hope your weekend was filled with fun!

Last week, I touched the topic of "The First Call".  Then, I got to a point where I wasn't sure what to do next.  There's so many possibilities.  After some thinking, here's what I'm going to do:

Monday - The Tech Savvy Tutor
Tuesday - Legalities & Business:  The Need for a Contract
Wednesday - Tools for Tutors Found around the Web - Tested and Approved!
Thursday - ???????
Friday - What's in my Tutor's Gig Bag?

I'll add more topics for the following week!  Thanks for reading!---Randall

Motivational Friday!

Hey Everyone!  It's Friday!!!  Thank Goodness!  It's been a long week.  It's been fun.  I've had the opportunity to connect with a couple awesome people!  Shout outs to Adrianne at The Tutor House and Candice at Alpha Delta Academy!  Thank you for being you and connecting with me!  Your advice and questions were engaging and inspiring!

For now, I'm going to pause with my informative posts about tutoring.  I'm going to post Monday-Friday.  Monday - Thursday will be informational.  I'd like to make Friday's a motivational day. It sounds cheezy, but I think it's important to step back and think about how to get to the next step. Plus, I feel, that we just need a little motivation.

Do you ever get scared of being a successful tutor?  I know I do.  Yes...it sounds silly.  A grown man scared of tutoring.  But I do get scared.  Often, I feel overwhelmed.  The more clients that I take on the more pressure I feel.  I wonder if I'm able to serve every client with what they need.  I worry that as I add more clients, I'll experience tougher situations---unsatisfied customers, failure to pay, or some students just don't succeed.   Success, as much as we want it, has it's difficulties.

While I was speaking to a fellow tutor today, I told him..."Dude, you just gotta go for it!"  He's a great guy and knows his math!  He gets all kinds of clients and I'm even thinking about working with him to generate more clients.  We discussed how, at times, we felt like we were holding ourselves back from the next level.
I was giving him the same advice that I need myself.  Sometimes, I need it by the hour!

For something to happen, you've got to do something.  A little extra goes a long way. You'll never get to your door to go to work if you don't take a step.  So I write this to say that Fear of Succeeding as a Tutor is a natural phenomenon.  Part of the reason I'm writing this blog is to fight the fear.  Reading everyone else's blogs also helps fight that fear.

If you're having trouble making the next step, just take your "leap of faith".  Put a little extra effort in and you'll be surprised!

I wanted share a video that really spoke to me.  From the moment I first saw it, I never forgot it.  It's message is profound!
212 Degrees -



I watched this video a couple of years ago and it really inspired me to do more.  It's helped me move from a classroom teacher to become an administrator.  I hope you like this video.  It's roughly 3:00 minutes, but a great way to start your day.

Next week, I'll begin discussing the importance of assessments, payment methods, and other key bits of information.  If there are any topics in particular or any questions you have of me, just drop me a comment or a message.  I'm not the expert...but I do offer a unique perspective based on my experience.

Thank you for reading and boosting my confidence!--Randall

Thursday, February 13, 2014

The Tutoring Session: The First Call Part 2


The Business End of the Call

Tutoring is the easiest part of what we do.  It would be great if we had someone else to handle all the business aspects of tutoring.  If you did that, you'd be working for a company and they'd take a little bit of your cut.  Not that that's bad...but when you get $40 from an $80 fee (true story!), it makes you wonder if that's the kind of work you want to do.

When I was working as a temp worker early in my life, I received $12.00 per hour!  Then I found out that the company charged $25.00 per hour for me.  I felt so used and exploited.  I didn't hesitate to quit without notice.  I couldn't afford anything with $12.00 hour.  As time went on, however, I realized that it's business.  I needed a job and they needed revenue.  We both benefited.

Enough about that!  Let's talk business!

The hardest parts of any business transaction is price, terms, and location.  Customers come from all backgrounds and react differently.  It's up to you to stand firm and hold your ground.  Remember, you're doing your client a favor.

Pricing
Once I get the "ok" from the parent, I start with my prices.  I immediately tell them, for example, I charge $25.00 per hour at 1 hour and 15 minute minimum. I explain that the 1 hour and 15 minutes works better with my style of tutoring.

I lay it all out to them in detail.

For example:  "Ok, so that's 1 sessions  at $25.00 per hour at a 1.25 hours for a total of $33.25.  Payment is due every 5th lesson.  So a total of $125 is due at the fifth lesson.

I then transfer that to a contract, which will be signed at the first session.  Notice how detailed I am about this part.  I'm upfront and let them know I mean business.  I value them as a client, but I also value my service.  I will provide a copy of some contracts at some point in the future for reference.

Terms
When I say Terms, I mean my rules of what's ok and what's not ok.  I cover items such as Late Arrivals, late fees, last minute cancellations.  The terms are simple and easy to understand for the customer.  There's no legal "mumbo jumbo" here.  I'm clear, simple, and to the point. For example, I tell clients "You may stop sessions at any time for any reason."  I will provide examples of terms later for reference and provide a hyperlink. These items are also included in the contract.


Location
The next discussion is about location.  I have one location that I tutor from.  In the beginning, I found myself catering to the client...sometimes you'll need to, especially if the client has special needs.   It is important to understand that I'm not trying to be a jerk about location, but you'll never survive if you go from location to location.  Either you are solid on your location or you're solid on price.

Clients are going to try to choose a location that suits them best, if that means inconveniencing you, then they will.  And why not?  They work a lot, they've got kids, and life is tough.  They've got a lot on their plate.  But the truth is that if they need to get to a Target department store, they're going to find a way.  As such, they can find a way to get to you, or increase your fee.

Location is purely up to you and your preference.  I typically choose a place that is public, quiet, and accessible to everyone.  That's usually a Barnes and Nobles, Books a Million, or a public library.  As a rule of thumb, I never use my current employment as a location.  Eventually, I'd like to have a spot that I can rent out for tutoring.

In Summation

It's your business, your terms.  When you talk with a client on the first call, make sure you cover pricing, terms, and location.  Transfer those to your contract and provide them with a copy.  Be firm during your call, but remember to be flexible where it counts  Remember, you've got to look out for yourself.

So what do you talk about during your first consult?
--Randall

Wednesday, February 12, 2014

The Tutoring Session - The First Call



The Tutoring Session -
Part 1:  The First Call

The first call is always a fun and exciting time for me.  It's the beginning of a new revenue stream and a great relationship.  During the session, I try to learn as much as I can about the client.  


First, I consider the "first call" a consultation.  It's free whether or not it's an in person meeting.   Whether I conduct a voice or in person consult, I make it a point to inform the potential client that I need to assess the client to determine if we're a good match.  Many people are a bit shocked that I would say no to a client, but it's important for the potential client to understand that I don't tutor "joe whoever" from off the street.  This increases my value to the client and increases my demand. It also let's the client that I'm not just in it for the money.  I care about my client succeeding. The good thing is that I have the gift of gab, so it never comes off as rude.  I need the potential client to realize that I don't need their business, rather I welcome their business.  

Second, I have a series of questions that I ask the potential client:
Sometimes I ask the client (adult student), sometimes I ask the parent.

1.  What is the client's name? 
2. Age, D.O.B.
3. Grade
4.  Areas in need of tutoring
5.  Reason for tutoring
6.  Current school
7.  Behavioral issues, referral
8.  Learning disabilities
9.  How is the relationship between student and teacher?
10.  Who is/are the student's teacher(s)?
11. What type of session would you like?
12.  What concerns do you have? (parent & Client)
13.  What concerns does the teacher have?
14.  What other types of intervention does the client participate in?
15.  What would you like to see happen?

Just a couple of notes:

15 questions is hardly a lot in a phone call.  Typically, the last 5 questions will lead to more questions that will give you a better understanding of your client.  Most of my calls last 15 minutes.  On some occasions, I meet in person with the client (at their request).

I have four types of sessions:

1. Homework Help
2. Concepts and Activities ( I teach a skill and engage the student in activities to strengthen, I          make it clear that I won't work on homework) 
3.  Targeted Intervention (This is typically SAT Prep, State Assessment Prep, etc)
4.  Hybrid (Sometimes I combine one or two of these)

My minimum session is one hour and fifteen minutes, although I quote by the hour.  In tomorrow's post, I will discuss the second part of the phone call concerning the contract and terms of tutoring.

Again, this is just me.  I'm curious to see how other's out there start with a client.  Let me know in the comments below!  Thanks for reading--Randall


Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Where Does My Dollar Go?

Making the Big Money...or Am I?


Whether it's $10 per hour or $55 per hour, you get paid a certain amount of money per hour.  It also feels good to receive a specific amount of money for just 1 hour of your time. When I first started tutoring, I loved getting $33.25 for a session that was only 1 hour and 15 minutes long.  I was spending my money just as fast as I was making it and it felt good!   Occasionally, I would buy materials for tutoring and that started me thinking...Was I really making $33.25 per hour?




The truth, I soon realized, was that I wasn't. You see, every dollar has to be allocated to another purpose. You're only hurting yourself financially when you choose to not acknowledge your expenses.  

For example: 

 Let's say that you get paid $100.00.

$100.00
$16.00 - taxes - yes, you must pay taxes no matter how much you make ($16 is just an estimate)
$20.00 - materials and supplies
$10.00 - transportation costs including oil changes, fuel, and miscellaneous repairs(if you tutor a lot)
$7.50 -  marketing costs - website, business cards, etc.
$46.50 - This is your take home pay!

What's that look like with your rates?

$25.00 / hour
$4.00  -  taxes - yes, you must pay taxes no matter how much you make ($16 is just an estimate)
$5.00 - materials and supplies
$2.50 - transportation costs including oil changes, fuel, and miscellaneous repairs(if you tutor a lot)
$1.88 -  marketing costs - website, business cards, etc.
$11.62 - This is your take home pay!

Still $11.62 is a livable wage.

Here's a calculating formula for you:
Hourly Rate: 
Hourly Rate * .16    =                           Taxes

Hourly Rate * .20    =                           Materials

Hourly Rate * .10    =                           Transportation

Hourly Rate * .075  =                           Marketing Costs

Hourly Rate * .465  =                           Take Home Pay


 Note*  These are breakdowns that I use. Feel free to try your own percentages.  Drop me a line if you have a question. You may have a different set.  For example, you might not have to travel if tutor out of your house.  You may not need to buy materials if the student has what they need.  However, a good tutor knows that the key to longevity is that every cent of every dollar has a purpose.  Even if you don't have to spend money on new pens and paper, it's favorable to allocate some cash aside for that reason.  Before you know it, you'll have a good amount of money saved and won't have to worry a client misses a payment (that's another day).

So, to answer my own question:  Was I really making $33.25 per session...No, I took home $15.46.  Still, pretty good!-RLA

Monday, February 10, 2014

What's up, Everyone!  Here I am with another blog post!  It seems like I just can't stop writing sometimes.  First and foremost, let me give a huge SHOUT OUT! to Adrianne of the Tutor House  Adrianne's site and products really inspired me to start my own tutor blog.  

I had the opportunity to download one of her products and use it with one of my clients.  It was an excellent tool!  The item was a pdf file for double digit multiplication.  You can get it here!

I am linking up with Adrianne of The Tutor House today...

If you haven't had a chance to check The Tutor House, you really need to.  It's full of ideas, products, and information.

Why did I start blogging about tutoring?

I wanted people to have that resource that I didn't have when I started tutoring.  In addition, I've got so much in my head that I've just got to get it out.  It's very simple for me-I want to share my knowledge with other tutors out there!

The Tutor's "Gig" Bag

What should I bring to my sessions?

When I first started tutoring, I showed up to a session with my laptop and some paper.  I found myself constantly looking for tools to use during my session.  Here's a list of what to bring to every session regardless of the subject.

The 10 Essentials 


1.  Pencils (mechanical), Pens (multicolored), Color Pencils, Markers, Highlighters
2.  Paper - lined/white
3.  Straight Edge/Ruler
4. Calculator - scientific, graphing
5.  Workbooks, printables
6.  Tablet, iPad, laptop
7.  Headphones (over the ear)
8.  Calendar - Paper/Electronic
9.  Business Cards!!!
10.  Scrapbooking Tote

I can remember my first few weeks of tutoring.  While I made it through my sessions, I ran into many issues. Clients come to a session with an open mind...which also means empty hands.  Really, it's symbolic and kinda sweet!  The client is telling you..."I'm all yours and open minded.  Please, make me smart!".  The truth is that we don't make anybody smart.  As tutors, we help them actualize what skills they already know by showing them a better way to understand it.

A couple of notes:  

Be Prepared:

Clients will not always be prepared for your lesson.  That's why they're paying you!  You need to have things ready.  Remember, you're being payed a premium to teach a client something that they should have learned for free.  Just because they forget their items, doesn't mean you can't work with them.  In fact, you better have something ready in case they don't.  Sure they'll finish the lesson, but nobody wants to pay for something that's not helping them.  A couple of lessons that are paid for where no learning occurs will lead to no more sessions.  Tutoring is as much a business as it is helpful.  The client is your priority.

Be Technology Driven:
If you're not electronic, you might want to think about it again.  The Tablets, iPad, laptops etc help so much. On some occasions, the client needed help completing online assignments.  Other clients needed YouTube videos to help explain a concept better.  Today's learners are techno savvy...you have no choice but to be techno savvy.

Business Cards!Business cards are a must!  I can't tell you how many people have asked me for a business card and I didn't have one during a session.  I missed so many so many potential clients.  I know some of you are thinking..."I'll just write my info down!"  The truth is that a business card is durable and fits easily in a wallet or purse.  They have colors, pictures, and information that written information does not have.  They serve a purpose and are used by all professionals.  To be honest, I have yet to get a call back from information written on a piece of paper.

The Tutor's Tote





  Need I say more!  It's light weight!  Easy to carry all your items for multiple clients and worth the money.  

Imagine all your items in one easy, organized place.  Better yet, it shows the client that you're prepared, organized, and knowledgeable.

These items can be expensive...especially the better the quality.  I was able to get a great deal on my item.  I went to Michael's and they had a 40% off sale.  
The truth is that you've got to carry things to a session...this is the type of item you need!

Sunday, February 9, 2014

Introductions!!!

A Little Bit About Me

What's up, Everyone!!!  My name is Randall and I'd like to welcome you to my blog for tutors.  This site is dedicated to all the individual tutors out there trying to "make it happen".  Whether you're trying to make a buck or trying to help a child succeed academically, I hope you find the resources that you need.

Tutoring is fun and rewarding.  You may even make a small profit if you plan things just right!  It's also time consuming, tough, and can present many challenges.  I find tutoring to be a lot of fun when I work with energetic clients.  It's rewarding when you see the changes in their report cards.  The cash...well it's nice.  

I'm sure that, at some point or another, you've found it difficult to find resources that matched your client's needs.  Many of the resources that could help are usually vague or require a high degree of monetary investment without knowing if it will work.  While I understand the need for prices, it makes it tough on us tutors.  Again, let me remind everyone that I'm all about getting what's due to you!  

My purpose for this blog is to  provide a resource for the tutors out there that want to get better at what they do.  Sometimes I'll charge (after all, I'm going to have to pay to host my podcast and stuff!), sometimes it'll be free.  What I'm offering you is a no gimmick blog that helps you (and me) get better at what we do.

Let's start with a few basics.  I'm a teacher and a tutor.  There's a big difference there.  Tutors individualize instruction to the students, while a teacher delivers instruction to a group of individuals.  I've held multiple roles in the public school system giving me experience with individual, small group, and whole-group settings. My specialty is math, but I've  experience in other subjects.  While I like to focus my sessions on math, I will work on any subject that a client wishes.  That includes working on developing habits that lead to academic success.

I'd also like to address another subject.  Tutor's provide a service and should be compensated appropriately. That means money for your time and efforts.  Never underestimate your impact on a client.  I believe that tutor's provide a level of instruction and should be compensated both for their times and the tools they create. 

The knowledge that I share on this site is for everybody.  I do not claim to take ownership - I wouldn't share it for free if I didn't want to!  

--Randall