"I have been teaching English and writing for over 20 years, both in public high schools and at the university level. I have taught A.P. Literature, creative writing, film studies, speech, and drama. Additionally, I have run many in-person and online writing workshops for writers of all ages, working with teams and individuals alike.

My students love my enthusiasm for the written word as well as my creativity in taking them from where they are to where they are capable of going. I love seeing students take big risks in writing and interpreting literature, and I wholeheartedly believe in the statement by education specialist Sir Ken Robinson: "If you're not prepared to be wrong, you'll never come up with anything original."

Because I am a writer myself with over 20 published short stories, I approach tutoring as a "doer" and a teacher, ignoring that ignorant adage, "Those who can do, those who can do, teach." My road to success as a writer has taught me that all great writing begins with terrible first efforts and that the process of interpreting literature, writing essays, and even understanding grammar should be a cooperative team effort.

As an A.P. Literature teacher and College Board essay reader/scorer, I have experienced every level of young scholar and have learned to differentiate and stair-step instruction. My students have commented on my ability to teach to the student, not to the test.

As a professional actor, both stage and screen, and as the 2009 Kentucky Speech Coach of the Year, I can promise my instruction on public speaking is based in experience--and a lot of it.

If you need a kind, patient, funny (so many dad jokes), experienced professional to help you succeed, look no further. I promise to make each student's success my priority during our tutoring sessions. My daughter wanted me to add that I probably shouldn't help you in math though." less...