Kathleen’s Vending Machine
About
I always start with something easily relatable to the student. Something they DO know to be a gateway into a new world they might be intimidated by. Everything listed that I’d love to help you with I have at 3-15 years experience with depending on which service you’d like to work together on.
I’ve done many workshops, presentations, and lessons with ages 18 months to 85 years. Ive been to dozens of conferences to learn how to share knowledge and empower others and consulted with businesses on HR sensitivity trainings and teamwork models. I’ve worked as a stylist, nanny, teacher and a social working Case Manager and counselor for years now.
I have volunteered doing stage makeup and drag performer makeup for the last 8 years. I personally tutored and edited many essays, presentations, and resumes in college and at work. I have participated in organizations for LGBTQ rights and education, and speech teams. I also played soccer, softball, ultimate frisbee, and volleyball for about seven years and then coached and was a PE Teacher’s Assistant in high school and college.
I actively play music and participate in a local drumline/concert band, do off-Broadway technical theater, conduct private swim lessons and lifeguard events, and visit museums and memorials often. I am first aid and CPR/AED and Lifeguard/Lifeguarding Management certified. I’m a mandated Reporter as a social worker, and have had many trainings on self defense. I also own many instruments and other equipment in my home office if you do not have space to meet.
I’m willing to work with you and/or present for you and a group or work environment to get whatever you need started, trained on, or improved. I also love taking guided trips to help visual learners understand concepts, timelines, and anything else that could be relative to their learning needs.
I'm here to create a safe, realistic, and fun experience while inspiring to motivate more than intimidate learners who get shy or frustrated. Feel free to contact me via text message, call, or email with any questions.
I’m a fifth generation educator from the Midwest. I grew up with a music/theater teaching mother and professional organ player and a history/english teaching father and sports coach. I also was a Girl Scout for 12 years, so I’ve grown up with sharing knowledge and helping others as much as possible. Nothing feels better than knowing that what I do is meaningful to those I help after they’ve started making progress.
I am driven to see the changes I want to see in the world in any way I can by sharing what I’ve learned so others may continue to spread that onward themselves. It’s only fair that I pay it forward after having so many valuable experiences and mentors to guide me.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
New students have very individual and unique needs. I try to figure out what level they're at, and then we work from there together. Sometimes the students know what they want to learn next, sometimes we just got on to learn what I feel relates to what they need or what their homework/projects require.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have an associates degree, I’m a certified lifeguard and lifeguard manager countrywide and I’m NYC. I’ve been certified in CPR/AED regularly for the last 13 years. I’ve attended several leadership based, event coordinating based, social work oriented, and LGBTQ learning workshops and conferences.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Let’s work together on what you think is needed, and timing. I generally charge $35/hour. Group settings vary and will be flexible for non-profits and one-time visits or trainings.
Any trips out of range, field trips taken, or spaces rented will need compensation for any fees or additional transportation beyond the MTA.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching in high school to get a new perspective on technique for myself and to help my small town not run out of young talents after my own instructors and friends moved away. I enjoyed working with children already, so I wanted to continue what made me happy. Now I do what I can in my free time.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with children as young as eight months old to fifty years old for swimming. As for percussion, I have mostly worked with kids at the beginners average age of ten or for marching band of thirteen. Often I would do group lessons for drum line rehearsals of middle and high school bands. I'm always open to helping anyone that wants to continue learning no matter their age or capabilities. I try to keep it real with what the students need to work on and encourage them to strive for better than they thought they could do.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Sometimes the age, qualifications, or any other identifiable trait has nothing to do with how well your instructor can help your student. As a young girl getting lessons from an older guy that I thought would be awkward, it turned into a friendship and exciting part of my weekly routine. Asking yourself what type of personality that won't clash with the student's can sometimes be what really gets the student to open up to the opportunity and give the teacher a chance to help them out in many ways as a mentor.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Why do you want to learn? Is there a competition with a sibling to be better? A grade in school? A love for music? Staying out of trouble? What motivates the student?
How much learning on the side is too much? Can I take on the new commitment in my busy schedule? Is there time for me to also decompress and rest for the rest of my priorities?