Excelsius Academy

06/09/2008 Posted by catkim33

I'm "queenxcathy," logging in with my other ID (there is a maximum character limit to these reviews)........ I have a few questions for LUCKYBEANS. Not to be confrontational but.......... It seems you have been given a variety of opportunities at EA. I'm probably one of the longest-tenured tutors at EA, and I can't seem to figure out who you are. You speak of teaching ESL classes. Generally, I have been given the ESL assignments because of my extensive experience with non-native speakers. I can only think of a handful of tutors who have been given such assigments, and I wonder which one you are? Well, that's inconsequential........... The important question is, why did you agree to teach those classes in the first place, if you were so underqualified? I feel that perhaps that was YOUR mistake. If you did not feel comfortable with the subject matter, then it was your duty to speak up and decline the assignment. On the other hand, if you felt that, despite your lack of experience in teaching the class, perhaps you might fit well in such a setting, then you should have been grateful for the opportunity. If it didn't work out, then that's that............... I don't understand why the administration should be blamed for you postulating that you could handle such an assignment. You imply that you were not qualified to teach any of your classes; then why did you apply at the academy in the first place? Was it not for the experience? Was it not so that you could find you if this was a good niche for you? I'm sorry it didn't work out well for you, but at least have the objectivity to be glad that someone out there was willing to take a chance on you. It was your responsibility to speak up if you did not feel comfortable. Don't point fingers at others when the the blame lies entirely on you. I find it impossible to believe that you were, in any way, forced or pressured into accepting the job. So, again, why did you not speak up?

06/09/2008 Posted by queenxcathy

EA is a growing business, and it has seen much expansion in the past year and a half or so. Of course, there is some disorganization. Gina (the owner) would be the first to admit that sometimes, things aren't as organized as she, or anyone else (including me), would like. However, the academy provides students with a positive learning environment, with tutors and staff who establish strong relationships with their students and truly care about their academic futures. Take a look at the students who have stuck around with EA since its conception; numerous students come back year after year. I've received personal notes and phone calls from past students and their parents to thank me for my guidance and assistance, and I'm POSITIVE that I'm not alone. No, not all the tutors at Excelsius Academy possess credentials, although a great many of them do. I myself am one of the few who don't. It is important to note that a credential does not specifically make a great tutor. It is a person's interpersonal skills and ability to draw out the best in his/her students that marks a truly effective instructor. I have seen many instructors come and go, people who had credentials and degrees from some of the greatest universities from across the country. Remember, some people look very great on paper, but are actually ineffective instructors in that they cannot relate to their students and earn their trust. I've had my fair share of stormy weather while working here, but I'm still here for a reason. Excelsius is like a family, a family that consists of all its tutors, students, parents, and staff. Just as a family, there are tiffs and disagreements, there is also the deep-rooted mentality that solutions and compromises must be reached together, as a unit. The relationships with the parents, students, coworkers, and administration that I've cultivated while working here have been worthwhile and meaningful.