My paternal genes determined I would have a great sense of humor while my maternal genes gave me an appreciation of being earnest. I believe these balance out well and help me to identify with students by reaching them through humor, with an understanding that we must press on while working hard. I have often used humor and earnestness to bring students to an understanding of the material they are working on. It is important to me that the students I tutor and teach have an understanding that I care about them and their future; therefore, I do all I can to help them develop their academic skill set.

I spent a few years teaching English to high school students at all levels after I graduated from the University of Wisconsin system. I have experience teaching World and American Literature, Film as Literature, Creative Writing, Journalism and Poetry as well as survey classes. I left the classroom and have been a homeschooling mom for six years. In the home school setting, I have co-directed a co-op while also teaching writing and literature. In the past year, I have developed and taught essay writing to students grades 6 and up. I have also tutored students privately in both essay and creative writing. A student recently said, "Miss Karen, thank you for your writing class! I did great on my SAT essay!"

Additionally, I hold a Master of Arts in Religion from the top apologetic-based seminary in the nation. I enjoy helping students understand various worldviews and how they impact our lives, culture and world.
I look forward to working with your child and helping him or her develop a love of writing and literature.