Tutoring in Math Produces New Outlook

"In grade 12 I decided to go to Sylvan to get some extra help in math, especially in algebra. Jack, my instructor, opened my mind to a whole new outlook in this subject area. I was welcomed with open arms and great hospitality, and have been very successful in achieving my goals of being accepted to attend university because of my Sylvan experience. I look forward to fulfilling my dream and becoming a nurse. Without Sylvan I don't know if this would have happened. Thank you!"

- Britt O.

SYLVAN STAR: Now I Embrace Math! The Wonderful World of Math!

"Kelsey has been chosen as an outstanding Sylvan Star. Here's his story. Congratulations Kelsey!

Sylvan gave me the confidence to fully embrace mathematics. Math (Algebra) always seemed extremely difficult. I had very little success with the subject prior to attending Sylvan. Working one on one with the Sylvan instructors really opened my eyes and my mind to the wonderful world of math. Sylvan helped me develop a proper foundation in math and turned an unsuccessful student into a successful teacher today. Furthermore the study skills I learned really helped me through the difficult classes in high school and were instrumental in my post secondary courses. Sylvan Learning in Prince Albert taught me that I could be successful in math and that I could teach others to be successful in high school math and algebra, as well. I doubt very seriously that if I had not been taught at Sylvan that I would be teaching now."

- Kelsey

Student Comments December 2011

"I am so good in all subjects thanks to Sylvan. Every day I enter, I exit 100% smarter. Thanks.

I like Sylvan because it helps me get better grades and encourages me to try my hardest at school.

My Sylvan experience has been great. I've been getting marks that are in the 80's and 90's in my math.

I like Sylvan because there are great teachers to work with there.

My experience at Sylvan has been wonderful; they are helping me with my Math problems so I can get better grades.

I like Sylvan because it encourages me to work.

I like Sylvan because you can skip questions and talk about them after you are done. You can say you don't know something, too. I have learned a lot about math, like how to divide, multiply with multiple numbers, etc."

LOOK WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU ASK FOR HELP!

"Sylvan made me realize the importance of studying and how to effectively use my learning style to achieve greater academic success. It was at Sylvan where I learned that asking for help is important and is nothing to be afraid of. I was hesitant to ask for help all through high school. I'm now in college and can confidently ask my instructors and advisors for help when I need it.

I am currently attending Lakeland College in Alberta, in Animal Health Technology. I'm really enjoying my time here. The fact that there is always someone willing to help me solve a problem is very encouraging. I look forward to finishing school in May 2012. My background is in ranching and I hope to work in a large animal clinic once finished with college."

- Maria

Celebration and Recognition

"We celebrate the accomplishments, big and small, of our teachers and students.

See whatis making headlines here at Sylvan Learning Prince Albert."

Study Skills = Success at University

"Sylvan made me a lot more organized and taught me how to study. Before, I didn't know what to study and now I use highlighters, sticky notes, etc. to highlight what I need to focus on, because I am a visual learner. I use my visual learning strengths to help in my university studies. Study skills really helped me better understand how to study and what to study."

- Kaitlin

Now Known as "Studious"!

"At Sylvan Learning I did the reading, math, and study skills programs, where I learned research techniques and the importance of studying on a regular basis. I like being known as "studious' now, but I sure didn't while I was taking the Sylvan programs. I am now willing to share with my peers at the college I attend that I once attended Sylvan, because in the past, while I was in high school, I didn't want anyone to know. My mom and I still visit Angie and the Sylvan Staff whenever we go to Prince Albert. Thank you! C.G."

STUDYING: USING MY LEARNING STYLE FOR UNIVERSITY

"Sylvan made me a lot more organized and taught me how to study. Before I didn't know what to study. Now I use highlighters, sticky notes, etc. to highlight what I need to focus on, because I am a visual learner. I use my visual learning strengths to help me in my university studies. Study skills really helped me better understand how and what to study."

110% on Math Test

"Between incentre tutoring and online Math Essentials one parent phoned to thank us and tell us that their daughter received 110% on her latest math test. She even got the bonus math questions correct! Hence the 110%! "Her confidence has soared and she now believes she can do math. We're so pleased!""

HOW SYLVAN IMPACTED CHRIS FOR LIFE!

"I personally want to thank Sylvan for being such an outstanding institution. When I was a young high school student I had extreme difficulties following and understanding the math they were teaching. My grades were plummeting and my personal stress level was high. I could not get past the difficulties I was experiencing.

My father, a bio-chemical engineer, was frustrated. He would attempt to help me learn the proesses they were trying to teach me, but this was not helping as we would both get extremely frustrated. One afternoon while watching television I spotted a commercial for Sylvan. I was excited, the things they promised about being able to help students overcome any obstacles, would surely allow me to move forward and continue my higher learning. It was decided that we would camp at the closest Sylvan Centre parking lot during the summer since we lived too far away to commute.

The staff at Sylvan were amazing. No one got frustrated with me. They worked with me to help me understand and be aware of the processes I needed to learn. I spent 6 weeks there and would honestly say that if it were not for these great people I would not be where I am today. I have graduated with Honours from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology in the Culinary Arts program and I am a Certified Red Seal Chef (Journeyman).

I have had wonderful experiences in my career and I owe a great portion of it to the commitment of the people who work at Sylvan, as truly they never will leave any child behind. I would like to thank each and everyone of you.

Chris G."

- Chris Gongaware

STUDENTS COMMENT ON THEIR SYLVAN EXPERIENCE

"I didn't believe in study habits, but after I passed my test I believe your studying ways help. Thanks!

I like to come to Sylvan because it is fun and you can meet new people and learn new things. All the teachers are the best.

I like Sylvan because I knew that Sylvan will help me a lot in reading and writing. Sylvan is helping me get better marks in my report card so I can go to university. Another best thing at Sylvan is the tokens, because the more tokens you get the more expensive stuff you can get. Also, you don't have to spend all your tokens. You are able to save them, which is pretty cool! Another good thing about the tokens is that they are helping the students like me work hard. And those are the reasons I like Sylvan. YAY SYLVAN!"

CELEBRATING SUCCESS!

"Originally, my husband and I sought Sylvan's academic assistance in secondary school writing for our son. Then, our teenage daughter jumped at the chance to receive study skills and Grade 12 math help as she prepared to enter tech college," says Heidi, mother of fifteen year old Stefan and eighteen year old Maria. After attending the Prince Albert centre both students improved their study skills, their grades and their self-confidence. Heide explains that she always knew Stefan was brilliant, but he needed someone else to believe and help him reach his potential. "I did not know what to do to help my kids become academically successful. Sylvan brought us hope. Stefan recently wrote his first 'correct' essay and Maria improved by 25 percent in her first semester of college. Their successes are due to the academic foundation my kids learned at Sylvan," she comments. "Sylvan's expert teachers and staff personalized the instruction to better fit both of my kids' learning styles and taught them the organizational and life skills that will benefit them for the rest of their lives."

In addition to the tailored, individualized learning plans that build the lasting skills and habits students need to get organized, study smarter and score higher on tests, Heidi believes the most impressive aspect of Sylvan is its people. "The staff and instructors at Sylvan know how to get to the heart of learning. Not only are they teaching because they truly want to make a positive difference in children's lives, they help academically frustrated kids 'get it' while developing a love of learning," she says. "Angeline Hesje, the franchisee of the centre, and her staff even drove one hour to attend my daughter's high school graduation. They took Maria under their wings to ensure her academic success, and will always be a part of our family. We could not have dreamed of more caring teachers."

Heide has advice for mothers of teenaged students. She suggests that parents obtain professional academic assistance as soon as a problem is identified. She also reminds families that there's hope to rectify homework struggles. "Sylvan brought my family hope and they can do it for your family too. I cannot wait to tell others about our learning experience. In fact, we recommended that our friends send their child to Sylvan for organization and study skills," says Heide. "MY ONLY REGRET WAS NOT COMING TO SYLVAN SOONER!"

- From Successful Student Magazine, 2009

A "Very, Very Good Thing"

"Luke is a ten year old boy who is currently in Grade 5. When he was in grade 1, his teacher contacted his mother to tell her that Luke needed extra help in reading. "I remembered a Sylvan commercial that I had seen on television. The commercial encouraged parents to seek early intervention," explains Luke's mother, Tamara. "I thought, 'Now is the time to get help' because Luke has eleven more years of school. Everything just clicked and Luke has been receiving Sylvan's personalized instruction ever since."
In October 2003, Luke began attending the Beginning Reading program at the Prince Albert Sylvan Learning Centre. Due to his perserverance, in a short time, Luke "graduated" to the Academic Reading program. "My son's hard work paid off. By Grade 2 Luke was a leader in the classroom and has continued to be a leader since he gained self-confidence from Sylvan," adds Tamara. In 2004, Luke switched his academic focus to math and has been coming to Sylvan for math instruction for three years.
"Luke has maintained excellent academic achievement in school. He works very hard," comments Angeline Hesje, franchisee and director of the centre. "Luke has an excellent work ethic, which is a great indicator for what he will achieve in his life."
Luke's mother credits her son's success to the personalized learning plan and individual attention Sylvan offers. "Luke takes pride in his accomplishments. He receives constant praise at Sylvan and his self-esteem has grown because of it. There's a feeling of pride that he has always gotten from his instructor, Donna, Angeline (Hesje), and the Sylvan staff. He likes working hard to obtain a positive result," she says.
"I feel that I finally have control over helping my son. Sylvan has taught Luke, but they have taught me too. My son is very confident now and, if there is one thing a parent hopes to give a child, it is self-confidence," adds Tamara. "As Martha Stewart says, 'It's a very, very good thing!""

- From Successful Student, December 2007