Chemist Finds the Formula for Tutoring

By Joseph Cole

Maria Markus came from Russia 13 years ago to seek her fame and fortune. Now, she helps American students have a better chance at finding theirs.

Markus owns and operates two Tutoring Club franchises, one in Stamford and one in Ridgefield. The businesses offer clients a chance to increase their skills in reading, science and especially mathematics. It is in math that Markus says the American education system struggles with the most. "I've noticed math education is just not very strong," she says. "I see a lot of students really struggle with it."

Tutoring wasn't the Markus's when she arrived in the United States. A trained chemist, she found herself without work a few years ago. Her son was enrolled at Ridgefield High School, which needed a tutor. She took the position and found the interaction rewarding. When an opportunity arose to own a Tutoring Club franchise, Markus jumped on it.

Markus says one of the things she likes really likes is the individualized tutoring that students just can't get in classrooms.

The instruction offered at Tutoring Club can also help students focus on which college entrance exam is right for them: the SAT or the ACT. "The ACT is becoming more and more commonly accepted. Eighty percent of students will score in the same range on both tests," Markus says. "But 20 percent will do significantly better on one than the other. There is no way of knowing which is the better choice until you take them both and compare."

To that end, Markus is offering a free full length SAT exam Oct. 23 for students to determine where they stand. There is no obligation for courses. and Tutoring Club will offer a full report on the student's performance. Markus recommends signing up early because slots are limited.