World Class, World Wide
From Tokyo to Texas, Mr. Phil has tutored over 40 students since 1995. He brings plenty of patience and adaptability to meet each student's needs. Mr. Phil recognizes all students begin their Bar/Bat Mitzvah preparation from varied levels of knowledge, each with different learning capabilities and interests. Preparing for a Bar/Bat Mitzvah is a busy time for the student and family, Mr. Phil is there to encourage each student and keep learning on track. Mr. Phil has tutored students in Conservative and Reform congregations and has read Torah for congregations in Florida, Texas, Virginia, and Louisiana.
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My Approach
Custom curriculum
Each student, family, and congregation jointly develop expectations for the student to become a Bar/Bat Mitzvah. The amount of participation by the student will vary - the number of prayers as well as the number of Torah and Haftorah verses. Depending upon these expectations, Mr. Phil establishes a curriculum to fit the needs of each student and to meet the expectations of the family and congregation.
Proprietary software
While the student will have a notebook containing the service and Torah/Haftorah information, we will be utilizing new proprietary software that will keep track of student progress and provide a location to store relevant documents, such as speeches and other reference materials. Additionally, Mr. Phil will read or chant materials and will post them on the site as well. Most tutor sessions will be conducted online using Zoom, Facetime, Microsoft Meetings or any other meeting software that is most convenient for the student.
With you every step of the way
At this age, most students have many priorities in their lives, from school work to elective after-school activities. The student along with parents need to determine how much effort will be dedicated to preparation. Once this is determined, Mr. Phil will be in tune every step of the way to encourage the student to achieve the goals.
On your schedule
Mr. Phil offers flexibility to find the best time for the student to conduct the weekly tutor session. Typically, it will be once per week and should be a time that the student is alert and not too tired.
Clear communication
After most sessions, Mr. Phil sends an email to the student and family to discuss what was covered in the session and then the assignment for the student. Mr. Phil responds to emails and texts should any clarifications be needed.
All skill levels
Given the challenges the pandemic created, students exhibit various levels of Hebrew reading ability as they prepare for this milestone. Some students will need to begin by reviewing Hebrew letters, while other students are ready to start learning to chant prayers, Torah and Haftorah using traditional melodies. Mr. Phil is happy to work with students of all levels. The skill level and amount of effort will impact what the student will be able to achieve. Depending on the student's interest and capability, learning Torah and Haftorah trope are an option.