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How do I connect online for a session?You’ll receive a secure link (e.g. via Zoom or Google Meet) in advance. Just click the link at the scheduled time—I’ll also send a reminder the day before. If you're new to the platform, I'll guide you through any setup needed.
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What should I expect during a class?Sessions are interactive and student-focused. Expect to: Review prior material to reinforce understanding. Work through new concepts using guided examples. Participate in discussions, problem-solving, and Q&A. Receive personalized feedback and next-step recommendations.
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Do I receive additional materials? What about additional homework?Absolutely! Every student has a personal Google Drive folder where I upload class notes, review materials, and practice exercises. Middle & High School: I don’t usually assign extra homework because students already have a full workload. Instead, we often go over their existing school assignments together to reinforce concepts and build confidence. If needed, I may provide additional practice on a case-by-case basis. SAT/ACT Prep: Students are encouraged to complete targeted practice outside of class. This extra work makes a big difference—helping improve accuracy, speed, and overall test scores. The folder also includes a customized study guide to track progress and tackle weak areas effectively.
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Do I have to commit to a minimum number of hours per week?There’s no formal requirement, but consistency is key. For Middle & High School support, one regular session per week usually works well to keep pace with classwork and reinforce understanding. For SAT/ACT prep, I strongly recommend two sessions per week leading up to a test date. This schedule helps students stay accountable, commit to the work, and make meaningful progress toward their target score. Regular practice between sessions, combined with consistent feedback, has a direct impact on results.
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What will I learn in SAT/ACT tutoring sessions?Each session is designed to target both conceptual understanding and test-taking strategies. If a student has gaps in knowledge, we take time to quickly and clearly review the foundational concepts needed to move forward. From there, we focus on strategies that directly impact test performance. In math, our goal is to solve questions in under 90 seconds on average. Students learn how to set up problems efficiently, recognize question types, and use tools like Desmos when appropriate. This balance of strong foundations and time-saving strategies builds confidence and leads to higher scores.
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How much can my student expect their SAT/ACT score to improve?With consistent tutoring and targeted practice, meaningful improvement is the norm. Many of my students increase their scores by 100–130+ points, and top performers have reached the 1500s. To set clear expectations, I always begin with a diagnostic assessment. This helps identify strengths, pinpoint growth areas, and communicate a realistic improvement plan to both parents and students. From there, we track progress and adjust strategies each week. In terms of timing, a focused runway of about 6–8 weeks with two sessions per week builds real momentum. Research from the College Board shows that even 6–8 hours of focused practice can lead to gains of ~90 points, while around 20 hours often results in an ~115-point increase. My program channels that practice into the exact skills and timed strategies your student needs most, maximizing results in the weeks leading up to test day. My approach focuses on closing foundational gaps, applying efficient test strategies, and maintaining consistency—three factors that have helped students reliably move closer to their goal scores.
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Do I have to commit to a minimum number of hours per week?For SAT/ACT prep, I strongly recommend two sessions per week leading up to a test date. This schedule helps students stay accountable, commit to the work, and make meaningful progress toward their target score. Regular practice between sessions, combined with consistent feedback, has a direct impact on results.
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Why are the rates structured the way they are?Private (one-on-one): Personalized, flexible instruction — $50/hr online; $60/hr in person. In-person sessions include transportation within Santa Cruz County, though availability may be limited. Online sessions are easier to schedule and provide the same personalized support. Group (2–5 students): Collaborative sessions cost less per person—$30/hr for middle & high school courses; $40/hr for SAT/ACT prep test. Group settings still offer quality instruction but at a better per-student rate because resources are shared. This keeps SAT/ACT prep affordable compared to typical private sessions that often range from $50–$100+/hour
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What are the differences and benefits between personal vs. group sessions for SAT/ACT prep?One-on-one sessions provide fully individualized instruction tailored to your strengths, weaknesses, and pacing—ideal for intensive, targeted prep. Group sessions offer peer interaction, cost savings, and collaborative practice. These are great for motivation, learning through discussion, and sharing insights.
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What is your cancellation policy?Do you need to cancel a session? Life happens, and I try to keep things flexible: 24 hours or more in advance: No charge. Less than 24 hours / no-show: 50% of the session fee. This policy helps me reserve your spot and manage my schedule, while still being understanding if unexpected situations come up. In the case of emergencies, I’m always open to discussing exceptions and rescheduling our session.
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What payment methods do you accept?I accept payments via Venmo, Zelle, cash, check, or other arrangements—just send me a note and we’ll coordinate the best method for you.
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