Mike’s Story
Mike started his education career at his Alma Mater, South Fork High School in Stuart, Florida. There he taught World History, Law Studies and Economics for two years. He loved the opportunity that South Fork gave him and was very happy coaching football and teaching social studies, but he wanted an opportunity to live abroad. So, in 2004, he successfully applied for a job in Tokyo, Japan where he taught English. Mike really learned how different the Japanese system is from the US system. Working in the Tokyo Metropolitan School District, Mike saw how culture affects education. He worked at a one-on-one language school where he honed his tutoring style as well.
After fours years of working as a educator in Japan and traveling around Asia, Mike moved back to Florida where he was hired to teach Algebra and Geometry at Palm Beach Gardens High School. Mike would stay there for four years teaching Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Earth/Space Science and even Social Studies.
Along with coaching football, Mike also coached girls soccer and taught GED classes to adults as well.
In 2012, Mike decided it was time for a change and left his teaching position. Mike then teamed up with his co-founder, Renee Goodson, to start Making The Grade Private Learning after working with Renee at Palm Beach Gardens High School.
Mike is a dedicated educator that draws from his varied experiences teaching around the world and different subjects to help families navigate the education system. He prides himself on being able to help students get the scores that they want.
Mike is currently certified by the State of Florida through 2020 in Math (6-12), Social Studies (6-12), ESE, Earth/Space Science, and Middle Grades Integrated Curriculum.
