Academic Tutoring · Grades K-12

Every student has a lively mind.
We help them find it.

Individualized math, reading, and study skills instruction built around how your student learns
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OUR PHILOSOPHY

Confidence Comes Before Performance

“Every child’s mind is capable of amazing accomplishments, based on his or her own unique set of strengths.”
We hold high expectations for every student we work with because we want them to know we believe they’re capable. In our experience, students gain genuine confidence and self-esteem from the sense of accomplishment following dedication, perseverance, and achievement.
That’s why our instruction is dedicated and focused. Our tutors provide individualized attention that helps students overcome the specific obstacles standing in the way of their greatness.
OUR SERVICES

Academic Tutoring and the Skills That Support It

We tutor math and reading, along with the study skills that help students become strong, independent learners, from kindergarten through college.

Math Tutoring

From counting and number sense to calculus, we help students build real understanding, not just memorized steps.
  • K–5 — Number sense, arithmetic fluency, early problem-solving
  • 6–8 — Pre-algebra, ratios, fractions, foundational geometry
  • 9–12 — Algebra I & II, geometry, trigonometry, pre-calc, calculus
  • Also — College-level coursework, standardized test prep, and homework support

Reading Tutoring

From phonics to literary analysis, we build the skills that turn reading from a chore into something students choose to do.
  • K–5 — Phonics, decoding, fluency, and early comprehension
  • 6–8 — Comprehension strategies, vocabulary, writing foundations
  • 9–12 — Literary analysis, essay writing, close reading skills
  • Also — Reading intervention and confidence-building for reluctant readers
OUR APPROACH

How We Help Students Overcome Obstacles

Our consistent, individualized process builds confidence and develops the skills students need for lifelong learning.

Define the goal

We start by defining each student’s specific learning challenges, then build an individual learning plan around measurable goals.

Match tutor & student

We carefully match every student with a tutor based on personality and learning style and adjust if it isn’t the right fit.

Teach one-on-one

We work individually with each student in a comfortable environment, free of the pressures of a classroom.

Follow their curriculum

We instruct within the student’s own classroom curriculum, supplementing with extra material when it helps.

Build rapport

We build genuine rapport with students and families and keep the lines of communication open so everyone can work together toward success.
OUR TUTORS

Educators First, Tutors Second

Every tutor on our team is a trained, experienced educator with the expertise to identify why a student is struggling and then determine the right approach to help.

Qualified & experienced

Every tutor has a background in education, holds relevant subject credentials, and is thoroughly vetted before joining our team.

Matched to your student

We pair students with a tutor based on personality, learning style, and subject need and adjust the match if it isn't right.

Patient by nature

Our tutors are chosen as much for relatability and patience as for subject mastery. Students learn best when they feel safe to try.

OUR CULTURE

Five Values Behind Every Session

Integrity

We do the right thing for the student, even when it's not the easiest or fastest path.

Adaptability

We teach the way each student learns, rather than asking the student to adapt to us.

Passion

We aim to inspire a genuine love of learning, not just get through the material.

Connectivity

We build meaningful relationships with students, instead of just a weekly appointment.

Honesty

We give authentic praise, so students gain a genuine sense of accomplishment.

WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE US

What Makes Tutoring Here Feel Different

One-on-one, always

Every session is individual, so your student gets the attention they need.

Convenient lessons

Virtual sessions to give your student expert tutoring wherever it’s easiest.

Real progress reports

Weekly updates, so you always know what’s improving and what’s next.

What Parents Are Saying

“We are so very grateful for Lively Minds Tutoring. You have provided hope and help at a very stressful time for our family, and we want to thank you so very much!”
“I’ve seen him become much more accountable for getting his work in. Previously, he would miss assignments, and now he’s staying on top of his work. We are very happy with our tutoring and Erin!”
“Let me say I feel a huge weight has been lifted off of my shoulders. I have lost so much sleep over his grades and finding a solution. I think we are breaking through, finally.”
“I can’t suggest Lively Minds Tutoring enough. They put a lot of effort into matching your kid with the best tutor for their situation and needs. We used them, and it was a great experience!”
“You couldn’t have found a better fit as far as Anna goes. We LOVE her, she is the perfect fit for our daughter! Thank you again for finding Anna, we feel very lucky to have her!”
“My son got a 94 on his first test in Calc AB. I was so excited, and while I know it’s just the first test, I think it’s an indication that the changes we made are so far showing promising signs.”
“Lulu is great! She sent session notes, and they were spot on! She is patient, positive, and encouraging. I think she is going to be a wonderful partner to get Edward’s confidence and grade up.”
“We have seen a huge improvement in her grades, but more importantly, her attitude towards studying. She has learned skills to help her succeed not only in reading, but in all subjects.”
“I wanted to let you know that each night as I tuck the boys into bed, I ask them questions. One is, ‘Tell me three favorite things about today.’ Ryan answered, ‘Seeing Ms. Michelle again.’ Thank you for being part of our village!”
“Our tutor singlehandedly helped my son turn around his failing grade in summer school into an 85 in 3 days! You can imagine how incredibly grateful I was after 3 days of solid tutoring. Amazing.”
“Shana was fantastic. She made Luke feel very comfortable, and he was so positive and happy after their session. He told me she really helped. I think this match is going to work out very well!”
OUR HISTORY

Founded on a simple belief

“A good tutor doesn’t just give a student the tools to succeed; she gives him the confidence to overcome obstacles.”
Lively Minds Tutoring was founded by Candace Heiken in 2011, in response to the growing need for exceptional individual instruction. Candace holds a master’s degree in education, a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and brings more than 28 years of tutoring experience to the way we teach.
Her belief is simple: every student deserves the opportunity for success, and success looks different for each student. That’s why individualized attention is at the center of everything we do.

Every breakthrough starts with a conversation.

Tell us what your student is struggling with, and we’ll talk about the kind of support that could make a real difference. There’s no pressure or obligation, just an open conversation about how we can help.
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