Our Tutors

by mindguide | Jul 30, 2019

Jennifer Dannenfelser, M.Ed.

Founder

For over ten years, Jennifer taught elementary aged children in Montessori classrooms. She knew that each and every one of her students were learning, but it was clear that not all of them could show their knowledge or gain knowledge through the written word. Jennifer didn’t know the best way to help them and was determined to find a way.

These children were bright, eager learners. They clearly wanted to do what was asked, but were found frustrated by their own difficulties. Jennifer knew she needed to find a way to remove the barrier.

So, Jennifer founded Mindguide Learning, LLC. She incorporated Montessori materials alongside techniques learned for dyscalculia. She then received training in Orton-Gillingham and learned a systematic, cumulative, auditory and kinesthetic way to help struggling readers. Jennifer now offers services as a private tutor to children in and out of Montessori schools all over Portland.

Bryan Black

Language Tutor

In 2019, Bryan left a twenty-year career in project management and began studying the Orton-Gillingham Approach to teaching reading. This change appealed to his educational background (BA English) and also his wish make a direct and positive impact on the lives of young people.

In May, Bryan completed the Orton-Gillingham Associate program at The Blosser Center for Dyslexia Resources in Portland. The training involved 70 lecture hours of coursework, close observation of lessons with a Fellow of the academy, and hundreds of practicum hours. Bryan will be applying for certification with the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators in August of 2020.

Bryan now works with students online and mentors at the Blosser Center in addition to tutoring with Mindguide Learning.

Brittany Zurschmit

Math Tutor

After completing a BA in Psychology, Brittany worked with puppies at a guide dog center. A fascination with behavior and development drove her to return to school and in 2015 she graduated with an M.A.T in Elementary Education. Since then, Brittany has gained experience working with children ages three through fourteen in a variety of environments including public schools, private schools, and outdoor education programs.

Brittany’s first step is always to build relationships with students so that she can understand their specific skills as learners. Once these skills are identified, Brittany guides students through engaging, multi-sensory math work to build meaningful connections with math concepts. She tailors her instruction to best fit each student’s pace, learning styles, and development so that each student’s unique learning path is supported.