Mentoring vs. Tutoring
When students work with Dr. Hurley on a weekly basis, they receive more than just tutoring — they are mentored.
- Mentoring is an ongoing, weekly partnership designed to provide consistent guidance, premium support, and long-term success.
- Tutoring, on the other hand, is ideal for short-term, as-needed assistance.
For the first week, all students — regardless of their tutoring plan — gain access to the full suite of mentorship benefits (outlined below). This allows students to experience the added value of ongoing support, daily engagement, and a community of like-minded learners. After the trial period, students who commit to weekly mentoring will retain these premium benefits, while others can continue with flexible tutoring sessions tailored to their needs.
Benefits of Mentoring
Access to a Private Learning Community
Students will be invited to join an exclusive online learning group where they can collaborate with other AP Computer Science A students, share ideas, and ask questions in a supportive environment. Parents are welcome to oversee the group, and students have the option to participate anonymously if they prefer. Of course, joining the group is entirely optional.
AP-Style Question of the Day
Every day, an AP-style question will be posted in the private learning community, specifically designed to keep students engaged and actively practicing key concepts between sessions. These questions closely mirror the format and difficulty of the actual AP exam, helping students build confidence and familiarity with exam-style problems. Solutions are posted the following day for self-assessment, reinforcing learning and exam readiness.
Weekly Office Hours
Students will have access to dedicated weekly office hours for extra drop-in support, clarification, or advice. Office hours will rotate on a weekly basis to accommodate students with varying schedules.
Guaranteed Question Support
When students get stuck on a question or concept, they can post it in the private learning community and receive a guaranteed response from Dr. Hurley within 48 hours (usually much sooner). Whether it's debugging code or understanding a tricky concept, students will never feel stuck for too long.
Peer Observation Access
Students have the option to join the Peer Observation Access program. By opting in, students agree to allow other students to observe their sessions and, in return, gain the opportunity to observe other students' sessions. Observers remain muted and do not interact during the entire session, ensuring all sessions remain focused and productive.
Personalized Support
Whether students need mentoring or tutoring, they will receive a level of personalized support that sets them up for success. Dr. Hurley’s approach is built around understanding each student’s unique challenges and goals. His practice is intentionally small, allowing him to provide every student with the individual attention and customized support they deserve. From tackling assignments and mastering key concepts to excelling on the AP exam, every session is tailored to help students thrive academically and build long-term confidence.
Homework Assistance
For students with challenging assignments, Dr. Hurley offers:
- Clear, step-by-step guidance to approach and complete homework effectively
- In-depth explanations to ensure understanding of the material, not just the answers
- Tools and strategies to approach similar problems with confidence in the future
Concept Mastery
For students aiming to build a deeper understanding, Dr. Hurley provides:
- A strong foundation in core AP Computer Science A concepts
- Advanced exploration of topics for deeper intellectual growth
- Real-world connections between theoretical knowledge and practical applications
AP Exam Excellence
Preparing for the AP exam can be stressful. Dr. Hurley helps students maximize their scores with:
- A thorough review of all AP exam topics
- Practice with AP-style multiple-choice and free-response questions
- Test-taking strategies to improve speed, accuracy, and confidence
Custom Learning Plans
For students with unique needs, Dr. Hurley will craft a tailored plan to address needs such as:
- Assistance with special projects or competitions
- College placement test preparation
- Strengthening of specific skills to meet personal goals
Investment in Excellence
Weekly mentoring offers a discounted rate and access to the exclusive benefits outlined above. Flexible tutoring sessions offer focused, short-term assistance with a rate adjustment after the fifth session.
Mentoring
(Weekly Support)
(1 hour of 1:1 tutoring)
Additional Benefits (no additional charge):
- Private Learning Community
- Daily AP Practice Questions
- Weekly Office Hours
- Guaranteed Question Support
- Peer Observation Program
Tutoring
(Occasional Support)
(1 hour of 1:1 tutoring)
Perfect for:
- Test Preparation
- Project Help
- Concept Review
- One-time Sessions
After your fifth session, the rate adjusts to $150/hour*
A Focus on Integrity and Growth
Dr. Hurley’s services are grounded in fostering genuine learning and academic success. Parents can rest assured that every session is conducted with the highest standards of academic integrity and professionalism.
Homework Policy
Dr. Hurley respects classroom policies and works within any guidelines provided by students' teachers. Students are responsible for communicating these expectations.
Student Ownership
Sessions are designed to equip students with the skills to succeed independently, not to complete assignments for them.
Collaboration and Trust
Trust and honesty are central to this partnership. Students are expected to communicate openly about their classroom expectations and academic needs.
By working together, students will build the confidence, skills, and knowledge needed to succeed.