"Hi. Let me introduce myself. My name is Robert and I am a former Green Beret. Life experiences have taught me the value of an education and driven my enthusiasm for both learning and teaching.

As a child, I struggled as a student. My difficulties stemmed not from a lack of interest, but rather were due to a lack of direction; I didn’t know where or how to focus my thirst for knowledge. It is due to my own frustration as a student navigating my way through my school years that I developed an interest in helping others who are experiencing similar struggles.

My further education includes an Associate’s degree in Electronics Technology and a Bachelor’s degree in Geology. The latter, combined with my love for the outdoors, came as a result of my service as a Green Beret and an interest in the physical sciences; I was heavily involved in chemistry, physics, calculus, etc. Those interests led me to acquire certifications as a MicroSoft Certified Systems Administrator, MicroSoft Certified Systems Engineer, and MicroSoft Certified Database Administrator.

In addition, I hold an FCC General Class License, and given the proper test equipment, I can perform component level repairs on most electronic devices.

Additionally, I taught 9th grade math and instructed afterschool computer programs at two different elementary schools. It was while performing these duties that I became involved in math instruction for Special Education students, allowing me the opportunity to work with a diverse group of students through the “inclusion” programs in place at these schools. It was during this time that I created the “one point for a wrong answer” solution model.

Due to my own struggles throughout my education, and my interaction with elementary-aged students as well as Special Education students, I feel I have a unique and applicable understanding of the difficulties young people face in their daily lives. And, as a result, I believe it is my obligation to help the young people of today succeed by equipping them with the tools" less...