Middle School Grammar Made Easy: Not Your Typical Boot Camp

KRISTINA VISNIESKY

I graduated from Cortland State University with a Bachelor's degree in Inclusive Childhood Education and a minor in English Language and Arts. Additionally, I hold a certification in Grades 7-12 English, and I am currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Literacy. Throughout my journey as an educator, I have had the opportunity to work with students across various age groups and learning environments, each experience deepening my passion for teaching and learning.

My teaching career began at a preschool that provided essential support to children with disabilities. Witnessing their growth each day was truly awe-inspiring, and it was here that I developed a profound love for working with these incredible kids. Their resilience and joy taught me valuable lessons about patience, empathy, and the power of education in transforming lives.

I also worked as a substitute teacher in high schools while simultaneously conducting observations at nearby elementary and middle schools. This experience allowed me to interact with students of varying ages and backgrounds, enriching my understanding of the diverse needs and perspectives within the classroom. The opportunity to guide and support students through different stages of their educational journey has been both enjoyable and fulfilling.

My initial interest in teaching was sparked by my involvement with the First Tee Program of Western New York, a remarkable initiative focused on teaching young golf athletes valuable life skills. Beyond the correct golfing techniques, I instilled important values such as perseverance, respect, honesty, and confidence. Witnessing their enthusiasm for these life skills, alongside their intellectual growth, was immensely rewarding and solidified my commitment to becoming an educator.

With a wealth of experience working with students and a deep belief in the transformative power of education, I am confident that I am destined to be an educator. I am passionate about fostering a love of learning in my students, helping them to grow both academically and personally, and making a positive impact on their lives.

REBEKAH POWELL
Welcome students to Rebekah Powell's classroom. I would like to introduce myself and how I love growing students and professionals. I have been teaching for over 9 years and I am a certified High School Science Teacher, Certified Professional Health Coach. 
I am a published author of the book Becoming A Healthier U and enjoy writing and working with students and professionals to grow themselves in education and their careers. I am also in School getting an MBA from A&M University. I have solid success records in improving students’ abilities in academics. Some of my students have skipped grade levels because we work so efficiently and closely together. I am a very fun and effective and cool teacher and would love to have the opportunity to teach you and your students.

NICK HOLTZER
Hi families! My name is Nick but as my students like to say, "Mr. Nick / Nicky." I have been a teacher for almost seven years teaching English / Language Arts / Math / Social Studies and Science at an Elementary school just outside of Washington DC. I am a passionate and dedicated learner and teacher that strives to provide endless opportunities for my students to be successful. I always say, "that as humans we all love to learn new things but we just don't know HOW we like to learn those things." My goal is to guide and support my students in finding the most effective avenue for them to learn and grow.

GLORIANA RAMOS-JIMINEZ
With over six years of experience, Miss Gloria is a dedicated tutor known for helping students excel across a wide range of subjects, including mathematics, grammar, literature, reading comprehension, and communication. As a bilingual educator fluent in both English and Spanish, Miss Gloria has a passion for supporting language learners of all ages. She is highly skilled in creating dynamic educational resources that enhance vocabulary and communication skills. Goal-oriented and responsible, Miss Gloria excels in problem-solving, critical thinking, and time management, consistently delivering engaging and effective instruction.

DAVID TOLBERT
Hello, my name is David Tolbert, and I am an English Teacher specializing in Writing and Literature.  I have been teaching in the High School levels since 2007, and have experience that ranges from working with beginning readers and English Language Learners to Advanced Placement students wanting to push their understanding of Literary Criticism to the next level.  

I have earned a Master’s Degree in Education and Leadership from Portland State University. I have also been trained in many different curriculums and strategies, including Positive Behavior Intervention and Support, AVID, Trauma Informed Instruction, and many more.  

I believe that every student has the ability to grow as a learner and I always try to provide a safe and supportive learning environment.  My mission as a teacher has always been to take big, intimidating tasks and break them down into simple concepts that make them more accessible to all kinds of learners.  I also provide a non-judgemental space to ask questions and receive thoughtful and constructive feedback in order to improve students' performance on academic tasks and build confidence.      

When not in the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends.  The main goals in my life now are to be a supportive husband, father, and teacher.  I love listening to and playing music, traveling, camping, and creative writing in my spare time.

I look forward to working with you and your students!