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Dedra D.

USD $60/hr
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Physics & Math Tutor | PhD | 27 Years Teaching Experience

Tutor Information

About

I am a physics educator with over **27 years of experience** teaching and tutoring students from middle school through college. I have extensive experience working with **neurodivergent** students. I have a **PhD in Physics Education Research**, spent nine years as a college physics professor, taught high school physics and mathematics, and served as a Science Department Chair. My specialty is helping students move from "I don't understand physics" to seeing physics as something they can solve and enjoy. I focus on building strong conceptual understanding, problem-solving strategies, and confidence—not just memorizing equations for the next test. I work with students in **AP Physics 1, AP Physics 2, AP Physics C, general physics, college physics, and nearly all levels of mathematics**. Whether you are preparing for an AP exam, struggling with a challenging college course, or looking to strengthen your foundation, I tailor each session to your goals and learning style. My teaching background has taught me that every student learns differently. I create a supportive environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and developing the skills needed to become independent learners. Online tutoring allows us to work together effectively using digital whiteboards, shared problem-solving, and interactive explanations. Sessions are typically 60–90 minutes, giving us enough time to understand concepts, practice problem-solving, and make meaningful progress.

Location

Locke, New York, United States

Language

English

Timezone

America/Toronto

Levels

Middle School
High School
College/University

Education

Rutgers University

2018 - 2020
Master's, Science Education
I went back for a 2nd Master's degree - this time in science education - to further my expertise in teaching.

Ohio State University

1999 - 2006
PhD, Physics
I have a PhD in physics with a thesis in physics education research.

Work Experience

Ithaca High School

July 2026 - present
Science Teacher
I teach physcis, mathematics, and forensics.

Rutgers, Newark

May 2025 - present
Physics Professor
I teach summer-term physics courses at Rutgers University, Newark.

Blue Ridge School

August 2022 - May 2026
Science Department Chair
I taught physics and mathematics, in addition to other boarding school duties.

Wyzant

May 2013 - present
Tutor
I tutor STEM fields, predominantly physics and mathematics. I have 1,218 hours of tutoring logged with a 5.0 rating from 366 ratings.

Oregon State University

September 2007 - June 2013
Assistant Professor of Physics
I specialized in introductory physics, revamping the large lecture courses so they would include interactive engagement.