Ellie Rubenstein

 

My goal in college was to become a school counselor; I wanted to help students who needed guidance either personally or academically. I majored in education and minored in psychology and received my Bachelors degree with honors. I continued my studies and received a Masters in Education with a Language Arts focus, again with honors. In addition, I gained certification in Special Education and Gifted Education.

 

I taught fourth grade for 15 years in a high performing school district. In addition to classroom responsibilities, I served on many committees, developed curriculum, implemented pilot programs, conducted after-school programs, secured literacy grants and presented writing workshops.

 

The most rewarding part of teaching was establishing strong student-teacher connections, helping kids gain confidence and reach their full potential. I was a frequently requested teacher and enjoyed working with some of the same families over many years.

 

Disappointed by the increased pressure to “teach to the tests”, I founded my own tutoring center so I could continue meeting individual students’ needs. For the past 8 years, I have been providing academic and personal support and enrichment to students in grades 3-12. Using high-interest, engaging materials and addressing various learning styles, my colleagues and I have been filling in gaps in learning, study skills, time management and test preparation. In addition to ACT and SAT prep, I assist high school juniors and seniors writing their college admissions essays.

 

I love what I do and receive pure joy from each and every success my students achieve. Whether it’s passing a fifth grade math test, writing a stellar 8th grade book report or completing an essay that helps open the door to Tulane, the sense of pride my students feel in their work brings a smile to my face as big as the one on theirs.