Cool Cats: Share and Learn All About Cats

About Mrs. Rutan:
My name is Madelynn Rutan and I am a literary enthusiast, lover of cats, pianist, and travel buff. I have been to 14 countries throughout my life and hope to continue to travel even more. I love learning about different cultures, backgrounds, and people which I believe is very important in helping people understand each other. Most of all, I love English. Specifically, I love books, reading, and analyzing literature to expand one’s world and mind. I believe you can travel anywhere and learn anything through books and desire to share these experiences with your children. I mainly hold book discussions and book analysis for my classes through a Socratic seminar approach and mini-lessons. This allows more time for the students to learn from each other, talk about the book, and gain a love of reading with a guided expert. After all, what’s more fun about loving a new book than sharing it with others. 
I have read throughout my life and could always be found in a library (including today as volunteer staff at a local library). When I am not teaching or reading, I enjoy watching various anime shows; playing video games such as Pokémon, Zelda, and Animal Crossing; sewing, cross-stitching, taking care of my pets and spending time with my husband.

Education:
My love for books led to my bachelor's degree in English language and literature studies from Brigham Young University-Idaho. My expertise includes literary analysis (specifically with British and American Literature) and helping learners read for understanding and enjoyment. I plan to continue my education Fall 2025 towards a master's in librarian science to become a librarian to help children find their own love for reading. 
I also earned a minor in TESOL which included classes on curriculum development, teaching with technology, and teaching philosophy. I tutored for 2 years at my college tutoring center as an ESL, writing, reading strategies, and study skills tutor. I used to teach as an online ESL teacher for kids ages 3-12 before switching to my own ESL and ELA classes here on Outschool since 2020. 

Teaching Philosophy: 
I value the need for a student-focus classroom and encourage an uplifting atmosphere for my students. I always make sure my students are heard in class and are encouraged to speak their thoughts and ideas. Classes will have a recommended age and content warning of topics discussed or talked about to ensure appropriateness for students within the class. I encourage parents to reach out with questions for any class. 

Missed Class/Refund Policies:
Ongoing: Full refund with 72 hour advanced notice; Partial refund with 24-72 hour advanced notice
Multi-day & One-time: Please read class listing; I am always open to work on a make-up day, but you are not guaranteed a refund for a missed class. 

Minimum Enrollment Policy: 
Ongoing classes must have at least 2 people enrolled for classes to begin.
Multi-day and one-time classes will continue even if there’s only one student. Parents will be contacted 48 hours before if they wish to transfer to a later section for potentially more students or possibly continue as the only learner. Last minute sign ups are always possible but not guaranteed.