Suzanne Smalley-Inghram

Serves Memphis, TN

35244

Hired 11 times

Not yet available

23 years in business

$25/hour

5.0

This pro accepts payments via Cash, PayPal, and Venmo.

Next Service

Hours

Sun Closed

Mon 11:00 am - 9:00 pm

Tues 11:00 am - 9:00 pm

Wed 11:00 am - 9:00 pm

Thurs Closed

Fri Closed

Sat Closed

Credentials

Background Check

Carol Smalley Inghram
Completed on 5/14/2021

Introduction

I have over 25 years in education in a wide variety of educational settings including Magnet Arts Public school, Inner City schools, Parochial school, Homeschooling and Private tutoring. I also have experience in instructing students with mild to moderate learning differences in both the arts and core curriculum subjects. I truly enjoy interacting with students. I have been so blessed to have teachers and mentors that were wise and passed on their knowledge to me. The more I teacher others, the more I learn. I get much gratification guiding students to success one step at a time. It is very exciting to help a student reach a goal or to realize achievement that they may not have even thought possible. My approach is methodical yet flexible for the student's individual learning style(s) and needs. Instruction is purposeful and encouraging in nature.

Q&A

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?

I am flexible regarding pricing. For example, if a student has a deadline/project, I will certainly be open to negotiating hourly fees. Also, if a group has common academic study need, I am open to negotiating fees. This communication can be done via telephone, face time or in person. This process will be brief.

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

I like to have a brief interview before the scheduled lesson so that I may gather information and create a lesson plan for the best possible outcome. Topics discussed may be past experiences, ( such as positives and negatives of your studies,) your expectations and goals.

What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

I hold a B.A from the University of Memphis with 12 additional hours of graduate work in Special Education for mild to moderate needs. I have passed 3 out of 4 Praxis exams,(did not sit for the fourth,) that are required in Tennessee to become a licensed Special Educator. I retired from the teaching profession at a relatively early age due to health issues that I was suffering from at that particular time. I have additional continuing education units from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in writing core curriculum in and through the arts. This additional work has positioned me to really "tap in" to the current STEAM educational philosophy. I am truly happy that this "trend" has finally come about.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

I had the blessing of having so many fantastic and passionate teachers. I did not like formal education but I did excel academically. When I was in college, one of my most beloved (but strict) professors told me that I would one day teach. I argued with her but she told me that she saw a gift in me and that I would one day realize my obligation....and indeed need to share with others what I had learned. She was right. My true passion is sharing wisdom and knowledge, and thereby, learning from my pupils.

What types of customers have you worked with?

I have worked with students as young as 3 years old and my oldest student was 93 years of age. I have also worked with all ages in between whom have had various learning styles and differences. In the past 12 years I have had the pleasure of working with several students on the Autistic Spectrum with a high degree of positive outcomes. Having said all of the above, I believe that everyone can benefit from benefit from a tailored instructional approach. I found that in public education so many "main streamed " students found great benefit from creative learning environments and practices that were formally reserved for "Special Ed" students.

Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?

This is such a difficult question for me to answer. I have had just one lesson to where the "light bulb" went off for a student to a 9 week period or a semester that saw a student(s) achieve personal and academic goals. I can honestly say that I desire to streamline expectations/goals with the student to achieve a positive outcome in a nurturing environment... Once again, a "Win-Win" situation for all concerned.

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

One might consider such services as qualifications that are the most pertinent to the student's situation such as a broad background of education and experience of the instructor, as well as, flexibility of scheduling and instructional methods. Other aspects that are often of benefit might include familiarity of the student's classroom curriculum, willingness to communicate, and work in conjunction with the student's current instructors, etc. Customization for the student is vital.

What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?

If possible, it would be beneficial to list between 1 to 3 different goals for the requested instruction. For example, are there only short term goals in mind, such as better grades for just a test, or a term? Or maybe the focus might be on brushing up on the basics of a subject, trouble shooting an issue that is tripping the student up, approaching the subject from a different perspective, or complete subject mastery. It is perfectly normal for goals to unfold and develop as the student progresses.