Some subjects can really be a headache for students. Even the most devoted need help sometimes, and at those times they can turn to The Tutoring Club for extra help.
Clarkston residents Ken and Becky Ermer opened a branch of the California-based franchise on Sashabaw Road in August 2005. After deciding to open a franchise, the Ermers began looking for an ideal area to set up shop, and their search lead them to Clarkston. The franchise is one of three in Michigan, the others being in Grand Rapids and Commerce Township.
The couple lived in Michigan during the 80’s before moving to Alabama. They returned to Michigan to be near family.
‘We are interested in seeing people improve their educational ability, which I consider, today, a very important thing in the fact that we’re into a global economy.? Ken said. ‘My wife and I are very interested in giving 110 percent to see the satisfaction of students improving their skill levels.?
We tutor K-12 students in the club’s specialized reading, writing or math programs as well as study skills. The center also offers high school students preparatory materials for college entrance exams and homework help in higher math such as Algebra 2 and Geometry. Becky added we have a great summer program planned for morning and/or evenings.
Students new to the club first take a diagnostics test to determine their skill levels. These results dictate what lesson plans would be appropriate for their overall program.
‘We guarantee we are able to advance a student one academic grade level in a 32-hour tutoring period,? Ken said.
He added that the hours can be broken up over the span of several weeks, depending on what the parents and students choose for scheduling.
‘The lesson plan is directed toward the student as an individual,? said Ken. ‘The lesson plan goes as fast or as slow as the individual goes.?
The sessions are taught by part-time tutors, which Ken said consist mostly of certified educators looking for a part-time job.
‘If we have a demand, we would come up with some resources for any type of special class’that we could do for adults,? Ken said.
The Ermers contacted local schools to let them know they are available. So far, the Ermers said the community’s reception has been good.
‘I think we’ve been very fortunate,? said Ken. ‘We’ve had a lot of positive people stop in and get information. The Chamber of Commerce has treated us very well,? said Ken.
Becky added that they joined the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce immediately because the group is beneficial for getting to know the surrounding community.
‘We are interested in the local community. That’s what our business is for, that’s what it’s about,? Ken said.’Our interest is to supplement the school, to help students increase their skill levels. We’re here as a supplement to the schools? goals and accomplishments.?
The Ermers said they work well together because their strengths are in different areas.
Before coming back to Michigan, Ken worked as a consultant at Auburn University in Alabama for eight years. Becky worked as a pampered chef consultant for the last ten years, and before that worked as an administrative assistant in Indiana.
The Tutoring Club is located at 6325 G Sashabaw Rd., and is open Monday through Thursday, 1-8 p.m., with tutoring sessions beginning at 3 p.m. For more information, call 248-620-4600 or visit www.tutoringclub.com.