INSTRUCTOR PROFILE:
I am a homegrown Phoenix native and have watched it grow from a small city to a metropolis. I am an athlete and a ‘mathlete’. I attended ASU for my BAE in elementary education with an emphasis in computer education and math. I received my MAE from NAU in Educational Leadership, and last, I went back to ASU for a MAE in Computer-Based Education. Most recently, I have attended math education institutes at Cal-Berkeley’s College of Mathematics.
Recently retired, I taught and/or coached for 30 years all around the Valley--everything from computer programming, keyboarding, computer applications, reading and math to swimming, softball, and volleyball--and all at the junior high level. I never turn down an opportunity to help someone increase their learning, whether it be reading, writing, math, or playing a sport. I have been informally tutoring students all my life, but have been professionally tutoring middle school math, Algebra 1 and Geometry for the past several years.
I like to build on a student’s own knowledge about math and show them how having a growth mindset can greatly improve their understanding and performance in math. I acknowledge student’s frustration and anxiety about math and want to take what they know about it to create their own understanding, whether it is by using manipulatives, movement, videos, games, or presentations. The biggest takeaway I want students to gain is working towards understanding why math works--not just that it works.
Besides expanding my knowledge of math in my spare time, I am physically active--playing volleyball, SCUBA diving, skiing, and working out in my spare time. I like to hike and ride around the country with my husband, Jeff. I have spent my entire life in Arizona, and now being retired, I get to travel around the country. Some places I have travelled to outside of the US are Ireland, Estonia, Canada, and Mexico.
I love to help with math, but I can also offer support with middle school writing, general homework support, and executive functioning skills.
Testimonial:
“Anna-Lisa is both reliable and flexible, willing to work around and accommodate intense sports schedules. Her approach is clear and my daughter received the help she needed to resolve questions and work through challenges related to mastering algebra.”