8th Grade Math | Full Curriculum | 2 Classes/Week

ABOUT US

Here at Mind over Math, we specialize in one thing, and we do it well - that's math! We know that mathematics can be a subject that many struggle with, so our mission is to make sure that no learner is left behind. We provide the tools to help your learner succeed, putting them in the driver’s seat of their own education. Our learner-centered approach makes math make sense!

We are highly specialized in mathematics instruction. Our ‘Mind over Math Method’ is based on years of sound research in the education field as well as years of practical experience.
We know that learning is easier and more enjoyable when you have an excellent teacher. Our teachers are all highly qualified and passionate about the subjects they teach and bring this enthusiasm into their classes.

Mind over Math Learning Center is a one-stop shop for all your learner’s math needs! We offer semester long full curriculum classes, weekly 1:1 tutoring, one-time refresher classes, and so much more. We look forward to meeting your learners in our classes!

OUR TEACHERS

Mrs. Sarah Abu-Ramadan (Founder):

For Sarah, teaching learners and inspiring them to unlock their potential in mathematics is a passion and a way of life, not a job. Sarah completed her Master’s of Science in Mathematics and focused her research on Mathematics Education. She then combined her over 10 years of practical experience teaching with her research findings to create the ‘Mind over Math Method’. This method of teaching is a learner-centered approach, which puts learners in the driver’s seat of their education, empowering them to reach their full potential.



Ms. Olivia Pretty (Certified Teacher):

Coming to you live from Nova Scotia! It is here that I was born and raised, and eventually graduated from Dalhousie University with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. I completed a Bachelor of Education degree concentrating in Secondary Science and Mathematics from St. Francis Xavier University, and am a current classroom teacher. I have experience teaching at both the middle- and high-school levels, in addition to my several years of experience tutoring. My favourite part of being an educator is working with my students. It is a pleasure to get to know them personally, and an exciting challenge to find the most effective methods to support their learning. I've always enjoyed math, and it is my goal to make math more accessible and fun for students!



Mr. Patrick Benitez

I’m a professional engineer, educator, and lifelong martial artist with a deep passion for teaching and learning. After working in the engineering field, I transitioned into education to pursue what truly motivates me—helping others grow through mathematics.

Over the years, I’ve worked with learners of all ages, from young children to adults, in both classroom and tutoring settings. My goal is always the same: to make math approachable, rewarding, and even enjoyable.

Since 2014, I’ve also been teaching martial arts and currently serve as President of a not-for-profit organization that provides affordable programs for families. These experiences have shaped how I teach. I’ve seen firsthand the impact that strong mentors and positive environments can have on confidence and personal development.

I believe every student has potential. My role is to help uncover it—not by telling you what to do, but by guiding you to discover what you’re capable of. With the right support, students gain both skills and self-belief that go far beyond the subject itself.

I’m proud to be part of the Mind Over Math Learning Center and look forward to working with you.



Mr. Nathan Castro:

Hey there, my name's Nathan. I finished my Bachelor's in Statistics, Computer Science, and Math at the University of Toronto, so I like to say my degree says I'm a certified nerd!

My introduction to formal teaching started in university, where I was a Teaching Assistant starting in my second year of studies. Leading tutorials (and even substituting for the professor in a few lectures) sparked my passion for teaching any and all subject material. I have taught University level math, statistics, and computer science courses in the past, but my passion lies in combinatorics and probability.

Since graduating, I've taught students aged 6 to 18, and continue to tutor university students in math and computer science. Using technology in the remote learning environment we have today is something I enjoy, and I believe we'll continue to find great ways to enhance the online learning process.

In my free time, I love to play video games, board games, and volleyball. I look forward to seeing you in my classroom!



Mr. Christian Calvelo (Certified Teacher)

Christian discovered his love for teaching when he was 17 years old as a private piano instructor. From there, he pursued a Business Management diploma from SAIT while tutoring Economics and went on to manage his own small business for 5 years. After gaining a breadth of knowledge in that field, Christian decided to get back into teaching and completed a three streamed degree (Kinesiology, Political Science, Sociology) as well as an Education degree from the University of Lethbridge.  

He has over a decade of teaching experience and has taught Math to students of all ages. Christian has a passion for teaching Mathematics as he loves bringing a real-world connection to his students. He believes that finding ways to make learning fun is important for students to find passion and reach their full potential. 

Outside of the online classroom, Christian teaches Elementary students, continues to teach Piano and Guitar, is a certified basketball referee, and loves to collect pinball machines.



Varpreet Dhaliwal

Hi there, my name is Varpreet Dhaliwal, and I am an experienced math tutor with a passion for helping students succeed in their academic pursuits. I have been tutoring for six years and have developed a keen sense of how to help students grasp even the most challenging math concepts.

I earned my Bachelor's degree in Mathematics and Computer Science with a minor in Education and Curriculum from Simon Fraser University (SFU). My love for education and teaching has led me to pursue a Master's degree in Computer Science, which I am currently working towards.

In addition to my tutoring experience, I am also a Teaching Assistant at SFU, where I have worked with students in various math courses. This experience has given me a strong understanding of the curriculum and course requirements, allowing me to tailor my tutoring sessions to meet the needs of each individual student.

In my free time I enjoy playing chess, and making games. I hope that I can help my students succeed in their courses by making the challenging topics a bit easier to understand.



Ms. Melissa Barrow (Certified Teacher)

My name is Melissa Barrow. I am a former early childhood educator and I'm currently a certified elementary teacher in Ontario, Canada. I am a former classroom teacher who has moved to 1-on-1 and small group online classes to help further support students who need it. I enjoy finding new strategies and games to engage students in their learning. I like to support students in learning how to use the resources around them to help support their learning and further their independence.



Ms. Sanya Charles-Herrera 
(Certified Teacher)

Sanya Charles-Herrera is an OCT certified Intermediate/Senior Math Teacher & Wellness Coach with almost 20 years of classroom teaching experience. Her teaching style is clear, compassionate & engaging; and premised on the belief that the purpose of education is teach an individual to think critically and expansively, while cultivating a mindset for creativity and resiliency. In addition, Ms. Charles-Herrera integrates differentiated teaching models in her teaching practice to ensure that each student is able to connect with the curriculum in a manner that honours their unique style of learning. 

A life-long learner, passionate about how to unlock latent human potential, Ms. Charles-Herrera's philosophical perspective in life is that each individual has the capacity to access and realize their highest potential, In an effort to support others to be able to achieve this, Ms. Charles-Herrera founded the ICx Centre of Inner Engineering where she offers MindSet & Resiliency Coaching by merging the Science of the Mind, Learning and Wellness in order to educate, empower and connect each individual to their Inner Genius.


Ms. Anna Nicolaou

Anna graduated with an Honours Bachelor's Degree of Science from the University of Toronto with a Mathematics major, with minors in Finance and Statistics. She has also obtained a postgraduate certification with a Marketing Specialization. She has worked as an instructor with the Great Lakes College of Toronto and the University of Toronto, Department of Mathematics. Anna aims to convey course materials in an effective and efficient manner through mastery-based learning strategies whether the goal is to obtain skills in Mathematics, Statistics, Economics, Finance, or Marketing.



Mr. Peter Grafe 
(Certified Teacher)

Hi everyone. My name is Peter Grafe. I am an experienced math teacher from a wide variety of settings from the cold of Churchill, Canada to Bermuda and Kenya. Along with that international experience, I also have used a variety of math curricula, from the IB, the IGCSE, and one AP course. It was in an American-based school in Nairobi that I surprisingly grew to love my geometry class there! My first degree from University of Manitoba was in Education with a double major in Mathematics and Physics. After teaching a while, I got a Master of Arts in Mathematics from York University. That mention of physics brings me to one of my passions: it never ceases to amaze me how the language of the universe is written with math. One of the enduring comments by those who observed my teaching was that I am an enthusiastic teacher. I do hope this is clearly evident as we interact.



Ms. Roxana Eshghi

Roxana began tutoring as a peer tutor at Western Canada High School, in Calgary, tutoring her own
classmates. She so enjoyed hanging out with her friends, in the cafeteria, after school, helping them
with their lessons, that she chose to tutor again, whilst studying towards her B.Sc. in Mathematics from
Simon Fraser University. She continues to tutor in-person, in the Metro Vancouver area, and is excited
to now be working online, as well. She focuses mainly but not exclusively on tutoring high school math
and physics. Her goal is to help her students enjoy and appreciate the beauty of these subjects as they
learn and gain confidence in their ability to succeed in their classes.



Ms. Joyce Mendoza
(Certified Teacher)

Hello, my name is Joyce.  I received my Bachelor of Education from the University of Calgary specializing in Elementary Mathematics with a minor in Anthropology as I also enjoy learning about different cultures and societies.  In addition, I have experience in Early Childhood Education and have worked with children with a wide range of different learning abilities.  With over 15 years in the field of Education I believe that students maximize and enjoy learning when they realize they can apply what was learned in the classroom to their everyday lives outside the classroom to make their educational journey that much more meaningful.

 It is my goal to make learning math an interactive and enjoyable experience while providing support to each and every student.

Outside of the math classroom, I also teach piano and love spending time outdoors with my family, especially with my kids.  We enjoy going on long drives away from the city and frequently visit the mountains and go hiking, kayaking and sightseeing.



Ms. Eliyah Brawdy

Hello, my name is Eliyah! I am a dynamic individual and experienced tutor, I hope to make math enjoyable and accessible for you. With a degree in Mathematics from UBCO and over two years of tutoring experience, I've helped countless students conquer math and achieve their academic goals.  I’m happy to work with student from elementary to university-level math, test preparation to homework help, I enjoy teaching math and working with students on their individual needs and preferences. I look forward to working with you!


Ms. Cheryl Morehouse
(Certified Teacher)

I was born and raised in the small community of Geary which is located just outside the capital city of Fredericton, NB.  I began my teaching journey in high school when I started teaching private piano lessons to young pianists. I also enjoyed lending a helping hand to my classmates with their coursework.  I discovered through these activities that teaching was my passion because I enjoyed seeing the progress made as each topic is mastered.  I have a B.A. and a B.Ed. from the University of New Brunswick with majors in Mathematics and French Literature and a minor in Fine Arts (Music).  

I continued my love of teaching while attending university through working at the UNB Music Camp as a counsellor and an administrator, working as a tutor at the UNB Math Help Centre, and by continuing to teach piano students.  I also pursued music through my study of the clarinet which led me to many solo and ensemble performances and to playing with the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra and the Bathurst Community Concert Band today.  

Following university, I travelled to Leeds, England where I taught grades 4 through 12.  My first Canadian teaching position was in Gambo, Newfoundland where I taught Mathematics to students from Grades 8 through 12.  Wanting to return to my roots and my family, I moved back to New Brunswick, and I settled in Bathurst.  I taught Mathematics, Science and Social Studies at the high school and at the middle school here for several years.

While teaching, I pursued advanced studies at the University of Phoenix in Educational Technology and Special Education (Exceptional Learners). This led to joining the New Brunswick Virtual Learning Centre (NBVLC) Distance Education program with the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (EECD) where I have been since 2016. Here I am primarily teaching mathematics to Grades 9 through 12 students.  This position has allowed me to work with students across the province, and Prince Edward Island who are unable, for a variety of reasons, to take these courses in person at their community schools.

I love working with students and seeing the spark ignite when they realize that they can indeed do the subject material.  It is rewarding to help a student understand that missing piece of the puzzle because often it is something small that was misunderstood and once that has been remedied, students see success. My colleagues say I have a gift for explaining concepts clearly and concisely and I truly care about my students.  I look forward to working with you on your math journey!


Ms. Kristen Calvelo

Hello, my name is Kristen. Starting out as an educational assistant, I gained a love for working with children and helping them develop confidence and find excitement in fully embracing their academic potential. Following my time as an educational assistant, I pursued one of my many other passions, interior design. After receiving my Bachelor of Interior Design degree and working in the industry for several years, I’m ready to get back into instilling confidence in young learners’ abilities!
Making learning relevant, meaningful, and enjoyable for my students is of utmost importance, as motivated and excited students make the best learners.

Outside of teaching, I enjoy baking, getting outside when I can, and spending quality time with my husband and our many pets. I hope to see you in my class!


Mr. Nolan Shelley

Hi everyone, my name is Nolan! I have been tutoring math, physics and chemistry part time for the past seven years, while pursuing a career in genomics research. I completed a B. Sc. in physics with a minor in mathematics before switching career paths and completing my M. Sc. in botany. My work as a teaching assistant during this degree really sparked my love for teaching, so much so that I decided to take up tutoring in my spare time, and I have not stopped since.
I work with students and parents to identify their aptitudes and goals, and adjust my teaching style accordingly. I aim to provide students with a visual understanding of mathematical concepts and step-by-step approaches to solving problems they encounter in the classroom and real world.

In my spare time, I enjoy playing competitive rugby and chess. I also take on many coding projects in my capacity as a genomics researcher. I look forward to helping you reach your educational goals in mathematics.



Mr. Mohammad Shahzad

Hi everyone! 

My name is Mohammad and I’m what you would call a ‘Developer’ - which is a
fancy word for someone who finds most joy in being part of a young learner’s personal
development and growth. I love to recognize the potential in students and motivate them
towards achieving their personal and academic goals.

My teaching philosophy is that young learners do best when given praise and encouragement to
highlight their moments of excellence. I go out of my way to recognize small improvements and
help a struggling student realize their potential and become the best version of themself.

In that regard, I’ve been extremely fortunate to work as a teacher and academic coach for over
10 years with students from different academic backgrounds. In line with my teaching
philosophy, I provide academic support by helping students navigate their personal and
academic struggles and developing personalized learning goals and plans tailored to their
needs.

Having previously been in medical school at the University of Toronto, I’ve worked extensively
with child and adolescent patients in the clinical psychiatry setting to address their complex
psycho-social issues using counselling, motivational interviewing and psycho-education. This
has given me essential training in the interpersonal and communication skills necessary to
teach young students effectively.

I have also previously completed a Bachelor of Medical Science from Western University and a
Master of Science from the University of Toronto, and I’m currently pursuing my teacher
certification at Queen’s University.

I look forward to working with you!


Ms. Ramsha Nasir

Hello! My name is Ramsha, and I hold a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering from McMaster University. With over four years of tutoring experience, I have provided one-on-one support to students from grades 1-12 and university levels in Math and other STEM subjects. Tutoring has been a very rewarding experience for me because each time I see a student leaving my session with confidence, I feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Throughout my academic journey, I realized that many students struggle with math—not due to a lack of ability, but because of the way it’s taught. That’s why I focus on building a supportive and engaging learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions. Using an inquiry-based learning approach, I strive to make math more accessible and engaging, encouraging students to develop a growth mindset. By fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills, I help students approach complex concepts with confidence and curiosity, empowering them to succeed both in and beyond the classroom.



Ms. Julia Jacob

Hello, my name is Julia! I’m a mathematics tutor with 6 years of experience, and I am extremely passionate about education and making math easier and more enjoyable for my students. I love both math and science, and I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Western University.
Even if a student never develops a love of math, my goal is that all my students are able to enjoy the tutoring experience. They know they are in a non-judgmental environment with a person who cares about them as an individual, and who will do everything possible to help them increase their skills and grow their confidence.

I have experience teaching both elementary and high school students, and I love tailoring tutoring sessions to the individual.


Ms. Yara Al-Dahleh

Hi everybody, my name is Yara, and I am passionate about helping students reach their full potential. With three years of experience as a teaching assistant in statistics and biology and experience as a lifelong math tutor for my siblings, I understand that every student learns in a different way. That’s why I take a personalized approach in my classroom, where I adapt my teaching style to fit each student’s needs, strengths, and learning preferences. My goal is to make learning engaging, accessible, and effective where I implement active learning and participation! I am here to support you in every step of your educational journey and create a positive learning environment for you.

Apart from teaching, I love to take walks outside, play piano, solve puzzles, and spend time with my family and cat, Maximus. I look forward to working with you in my classroom!


Ms. Akshaya Venkatesh

Hi, i'm Akshaya! I've always enjoyed math and I am happy to share this knowledge with the next generation of students. My method of teaching involves providing students with "tools in their toolbox" and equiping them to solve a variety of problems. 

I enjoy rock climbing, swimming, and playing piano in my spare time. I like to take creative approaches when tackling problems. My end goal is having my students be able to walk me through challenging problems and look back at our sessions with fondness.