Mission and Philosophy

My Philosophy and Core Values: 

I believe that children possess complete competence, limitless potential, and the innate ability to construct their own meaning of their experiences. Therefore, goals can be met in ways that build on students’ questions and interests, engaging them in problem solving and critical thinking, and applying those skills to real-life situations. My role as an educator and mentor is to provide such learning experiences by tailoring instruction to each child’s individual strengths, learning styles and interests.

Allen Kushinsky

Academic Mentor and Founder of Tutors of Marin 

I provide individualized, focused academic tutoring services for students in elementary, middle, and high school. My teaching focuses on a heart-centered, relationship-based approach that empowers students with the academic, social, and organizational skills they need to become independent learners.

I received my Masters in Education from Columbia University, Teachers College. He has professional training and instructional experience from the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Reggio Emilia frameworks. I began my career as an elementary classroom teacher in New York City, and have since taught in Thailand, Italy, and San Francisco.

My educational approach is rooted in the belief that children possess competence, limitless potential, and the innate ability to construct their own meaning of their experiences. Therefore, I help students meet their goals by building on their questions and interests, engaging them in problem solving and critical thinking, and applying those skills to real-life situations. I provide such learning experiences by combining my knowledge of the IB and Reggio Emilia philosophies and formal training in stress reduction techniques to increase academic performance. 

My passion and commitment toward working as an educator stem from 14 years of classroom teaching at a Reggio Emilia inspired school in San Francisco. Eventually I assumed a leadership position to head its upper elementary program. With the dual role of full-time classroom teacher and program coordinator, I designed and implemented a dynamic project-based curriculum, which led me to discover the important value of relationships in education: a sound interpersonal connection with each of my students allows for a deeper understanding of their individual strengths and learning styles. My realization inspired me to create Tutors of Marin – a private tutoring service that reflects my vision of heart-centered, relationship-based education.