Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
Since graduating from Greensboro College with a Bachelor's Degree in Special Education, I have been doing educational testing for over 20 years. I started in the public school system working with students who had special learning needs. As part of my duties, I tested students suspected of having learning disabilities. I used the testing information as part of the schools processes to identify any learning issues a student may have. I used this information to create an Individual Education Plan for students who were in need of extra educational support.
Once I left the public school system and began working privately, I used the information to determine the educational program of the students I tutor.
What is your primary product or service?
Currently, I work primarily with families who home educate their children. I administer the Woodcock-Johnson III. It is a Nationally Standardized test and one that meets the testing requirements established by the North Carolina Department of Nonpublic Education.
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
I first became interested in working with students who have learning issues as a result of my own educational issues and those of my brothers and sisters. Students who are identified as having a Learning Disability are by definition, students who have average intelligence. I wanted to help those students succeed.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
When I work with a family to complete an educational asesment, I schedule time for the student as well as time to go over the results with the parents. It is important that the parents understand the information. For families who home educate their children, this information confirms the progress that was made of the previous year. I can also point out areas of weakness that the student may have.
As a home educator, I have experienced many home school curriculum choices myself. I am able to use my experience to help lead parents to appropriate curriculum choices if they choose.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
I work in Wilkes County and live in Rowan County. During the spring months, I travel to Wilkes for testing. I test from my home in Salisbury year round. I do not have plans to expand beyond those two locations.
Provide detailed directions to your location
I live in the Western Part of Rowan County. I prefer to give directions specifically to clients who have contacted me.
What type of payments do you accept?
At this time, I accept cash, check or money order.
Which areas do you service?
I work in Wilkes County and live in Rowan County. During the spring months, I travel to Wilkes for testing. I test from my home in Salisbury year round.
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
I am the owner and operator.
What are your hours of operation?
I am available to work with students year round.
I home school my children in the mornings and schedule testing in the afternoon. During the spring, I adjust my schedule to allow for more opportunities to test students.
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
Many students get very anxious about testing situations. I try to make the situation as comfortable and relaxing as possible.
I have has students and parents tell me that their child enjoys testing with me. To me, that is the best compliment I could get. Young students I only see once a year, come up an hug me when they see me out in public. I like knowing that I have removed the anxiety from a potentially stressful situation.