Parents often ask me what I do as an Academic Coach. And while I can sometimes give a clear-cut answer, it is not always a simple one. As a professional educator for over 20 years, I recognize that sometimes a student doesn't understand the essence or expectations of a particular assignment or teacher, cannot grasp how to take a thought from his/her mind and translate it into the written word, or just can't see that "good enough," is not enough.
On top of all of this, completing schoolwork often becomes a tug-of-war between child and parent. This is where I come in. With a professional and empathetic approach, I work side-by-side as a partner, tackling each challenge with a "team effort." A student's struggle becomes our struggle, and I will never give up on them.
Academic Coaching means being there for someone, just taking some of the burden away, and constantly acknowledging and celebrating each and every accomplishment. Academic Coaching means helping a student go beyond "good enough," and leads to long-term student success. I believe that my job is to get through the "now," in order for achievement to come in the future. I understand that educational success is a marathon, and not a sprint.
Finally, I believe that every student deserves to learn and be successful. I truly love what I do, and believe that I am more than just a tutor.
Meet Bernie Donner
· I am highly educated in the areas of English, writing, literature, and history.
· I know how to facilitate a love of the written word from my life to my teaching practice.
· I view parents as integral members of the educational team, and I am eager to continue to collaborate with families both within and outside of school.
· I have designed and developed a rigorous academic program for middle and high school students, thoroughly preparing them for the next step in a successful academic career.
· I possess the necessary personal and professional traits that will help students become successful communicators, specifically in the areas of writing, oral presentations, and interpersonal interactions.