Academic Tutoring Overview

For High School Students

I offer personalized tutoring for students navigating rigorous academic programs, notably the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. With over thirty years of teaching experience across four countries and a decade as an IB examiner, I understand what it takes to succeed in challenging coursework while maintaining balance and confidence.

Methodology

Effective tutoring begins with listening. Every student arrives with unique strengths, challenges, and ways of making meaning. Rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all approach, I work collaboratively with students to identify their specific needs—whether that’s mastering literary analysis, developing research skills, or building confidence in their writing. Sessions are structured yet flexible, balancing direct instruction with guided practice and reflection. I ask questions that push thinking deeper, provide concrete feedback, and celebrate progress along the way. My goal isn’t just to help students complete assignments, but to help them develop the critical thinking and self-advocacy skills they’ll carry forward.

Tutoring students of Michelle Ray.
Student in front of her presentation.

Who I Tutor

I work primarily with high school students in IB and advanced literature courses, though I also support middle schoolers building foundational reading and writing skills. My students include those navigating Extended Essays, Internal Assessments, or Theory of Knowledge projects, as well as those who simply want to strengthen their literary analysis or writing skills. Having taught students from over 60 nationalities, I’m experienced working with multilingual learners and students from diverse cultural backgrounds. I also welcome students who learn differently or need accommodations—my trauma-informed training helps me create a safe, supportive space for all learners.

Subjects

IB Diploma Programme

  • Literature (Higher Level & Standard Level)
  • Extended Essay supervision and guidance
  • Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
  • Theory of Knowledge Exhibition
  • Internal Assessments
  • Language and Literature

Reading & Writing

  • Literary analysis and close reading
  • Essay writing and development
  • Research skills and academic writing
  • Reading comprehension strategies
  • Creative writing

World Literature & Texts

  • Contemporary and classic literature
  • Cross-cultural and international texts
  • Genre study (poetry, prose, drama)
  • Thematic and comparative analysis

Experience

As an IB Diploma Programme Examiner since 2014, I’ve evaluated thousands of essays and extended research papers from students worldwide, giving me insider knowledge of what examiners look for and how students can maximize their success.

Key Positions

  • IB Diploma Programme Coordinator, Loveland High School (2020-2025) – supervised Extended Essays, taught Theory of Knowledge, coordinated Career-related Programme implementation
  • Deputy Head of English, Dubai International Academy, UAE (2008-2013) – taught students from over 60 nationalities, mentored teachers in literary pedagogy
  • English Department Head, Bahrain Bayan School (2003-2007) – led department of 8 teachers, supervised Extended Essays, taught IB English at Higher and Standard Levels
  • IB English Teacher, American School of Quito, Ecuador (2000-2003) – taught IB Higher Level English, presented professional development workshops
  • IB English Teacher, American School of Guayaquil, Ecuador (1997-1999) – taught IB Standard Level English, co-founded student literary magazine

Michelle’s Stats

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Years Teaching
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Countries
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Years IB Examiner
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Nationalities Taught
Tutoring students of Michelle Ray.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you need support with IB coursework, essay writing, or literary analysis, I’d love to hear from you.