We believe that all students have the right to be happy and to develop a positive self-image, self-confidence, and high self-esteem as they proceed through school, from kindergarten through college. Students learn best in educational environments that celebrate their unique strengths and interests and focus on their positive attributes. At the same time, we must address learning weaknesses early, with appropriate remediation and compensatory strategies to avoid frustration, anxieties, and low self-esteem. (See these two resources which capture our philosophy: "The Cracked Water Pot" and a poem called "Thought".)

Parents and school staff must work together as partners to ensure that learning takes place in an atmosphere where the student's strengths and interests can develop to their maximum possible extent. With such a partnership, the student will be able to accept and cope with their relative weaknesses while still feeling confident and comfortable with themselves. We need to look at the "whole child" and consider educational, social, and emotional needs to determine an appropriate course of action.

• All tutoring sessions are tailored to individual needs and learning styles.
• Coaching and assistance is provided to parents and caretakers on strategies for homework completion "at home."
• Team approach is utilized; On-going feedback is coordinated amongst parents, teachers, and tutors.
• A balance of remedial and compensatory techniques is utilized.
• Homework is incorporated into tutoring session when appropriate; students are provided with strategies for completing homework independently. Homework is never done FOR the child.
• A warm, caring, relaxed atmosphere is provided; snacks and drinks are encouraged.
• Students are encouraged to bring in and share items, books, stories of interest
• Every effort is made to incorporate the child's passions and interests into the work of the sessions whenever possible.
• During the school year, the student's actual schoolwork and subject content are utilized to teach strategies.
• Follow-up work is assigned based on the student's homework load.