About Me

My name is Kelly Gleason. I was born and raised in the Bay Area, and after squelching some of that wild yearning for adventure that included living in China, Brazil, West Virginia, Hawaii, and Washington, D.C., I returned home. I tutor middle and high school students full-time.

I’ve worked with kids ever since I stopped being one. Much of my experience comes from camp and youth groups, but I’ve coached and mentored as well. In addition to tutoring, I coach teen capoeira (Brazilian martial art) and teach cribbage.

When I initially considered tutoring, I worried that my tumultuous academic career disqualified me as a legitimate source of academic guidance. I’d always tested well, but never produced grades that mirrored my scores. Weren’t the best tutors Ivy Leaguers at the top of their class?

Perhaps, but what I’ve discovered in my work is that my frustrating academic experiences have provided me with a way to connect to students who struggle, and to help them develop strategies to overcome their challenges. It’s a joyful process to help a student move from chaos and frustration to order and understanding, and students appreciate it. I know I did.

3 responses to “About Me

  1. Kirstin's avatar Kirstin

    Kelly- your blog articles are incredible! I’ve been a mom for more than 28 years and wish I had posts like yours to read decades ago. Mothers of boys have a unique job and, as such, are entirely grateful to men like you who can translate their experiences into such comforting and useful tools. Appreciate all the wisdom and wit you have condensed into these gems!

  2. Carol Nyman's avatar Carol Nyman

    These tips are so helpful! Some offer a different slant on problems, others are tried-and-true approaches, but delivered in a fresh, entertaining style. Thanks so much!

  3. Steve Kaiser's avatar Steve Kaiser

    Hey Kelly – your website looks great! And right after I saw it I began reading an article in the June 2012 issue of Scientific American entitled “The Right Way to Get It Wrong.” It reminded me of the Keys Wallet [etc.] article, and a different way to look at errors. Check it out.

Thoughts?