Bright Idea Tutoring is a resource site for grades 1-6.  As a dedicated teacher, I believe in  providing a supportive learning environment where each student is encouraged to reach his or her potential.  Excellence is my goal, and I want each of my students to be excited to come to class to learn.​

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      I retired after teaching over thirty years as a classroom teacher in both Gwinnett and Forsyth counties.  I have worked as a private tutor for 10+ years as well.  In 1990, I began my education career by graduating Summa Cum Laude from University of Georgia as a First Honor Graduate (co-valedictorian) with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. At UGA, I also won the Edwin D. Pusey Prize for Academic Excellence and was inducted into the Zodiac Honor Society for students with a 4.0.   I earned a Masters of Elementary Education degree from Georgia State University a few years later.  Then in 2003, I earned National Board Certification (Middle Education Generalist) in grades 3-7.  I served as a teacher leader in my school as the grade level chairperson, and I also worked on many county committees.  In addition, I mentored many teacher interns from both South Forsyth High School and North Georgia University, and it was extremely gratifying to watch them graduate and become a teacher! 

     I tutor English/Language Arts, with a specialty in teaching writing and critical thinking.  I have been trained in the Reading Recovery program, and I use the strategies and activities from that program, as well as the Orton Gillingham method, with students who struggle with reading and phonics.  I have about half of my experience in grades K-2 and half in grades 3-8.

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      On a personal note, I have two beautiful grown and married daughters, a wonderful husband, and two little dogs.  I also rescue horses off off the racetrack and train them for a new job, saving them from the slaughterhouse.  The photo is of my heart horse, Atticus, and I at the National Thoroughbred Championships in 2024, where we somehow ended up adult amateur champions in the 2'6" jumpers.  (A dream come true!)  I have ridden and trained horses for years, so my two passions are working with kids and animals.  I also love to hike with Tim, garden, cook, and read, of course!

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                    Janet Cooper and Atticus

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