If you are considering enrolling your student in a STAAR prep course, Varsity Tutors offers private STAAR classes that may help them improve their study skills. The STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) exams are taken by all students grades 3-12 to determine what they are learning and whether they are ready for the academic rigors of the next grade level. Standardized tests can feel daunting, so a STAAR class can help build your student's confidence as exam day approaches!
One of the first things discussed in a typical STAAR course is the structure and content of the exams your student is preparing for. If you aren't sure what they should go over during STAAR prep class sessions, the chart below provides a breakdown of the STAAR schedule by grade level:
STAAR Test | Grade Level or Course |
Reading | Grades 3-8 |
Math | Grades 3-8 |
Writing | Grades 4 and 7 |
Science | Grades 5 and 8 |
Social Studies | Grade 8 |
EOC (end of course) | Algebra I, US History, Biology, English I, English II |
The beauty of private STAAR prep classes is that they are flexible enough to adapt to any student's needs. For instance, let's say that your student is in Grade 8. They have four STAAR tests on their plate this year: Reading, Math, Science, and Social Studies. A typical STAAR course might spend equal time on all four subjects, but most students are stronger in one or more than the others. Spending an equal amount of time on everything isn't the optimal solution in most cases.
Let's add that your student excels in reading comprehension, so you're not really worried about the Reading STAAR. Strong reading comprehension skills also make Social Studies easier, so that one is probably fine too. It looks like this hypothetical student might be best served by concentrating on the Math and Science STAAR exams, with maybe a little bit of review for the other two, during their STAAR courses. Of course, sessions could also focus on Reading and Social Studies in the opposite scenario.
Once you know which exams your student should concentrate on, STAAR prep courses might go over the specific contents of those tests. Returning to the example above, the following graphic breaks down the concepts on the Grade 8 Math STAAR exam:
STAAR Grade 8 Math Topics
- Numerical Representations and Relationships
- Computations and Algebraic Relationships
- Geometry and Measurement
- Data Analysis and Personal Financial Literacy
Again, working with a private instructor allows students to concentrate on any subject. If your student has strong algebraic skills but has a harder time with geometry, their instructor might provide extra geometry practice problems for more experience. A private instructor may also be able to incorporate your student's interests to make studying more engaging. For example, financial literacy can seem dry as a standalone topic, but framing it as saving for a video game may make it more interesting.
We also try to make STAAR test prep as convenient as possible. Our Live Learning Platform allows your student to meet with their instructor online, taking the hassle out of private STAAR prep courses. We also do our best to match every student with an instructor who meets your scheduling needs. After all, no kid should have to compromise sports, hobbies, or even relaxation time just to study for a test.
If you're ready to learn more about our STAAR classes, contact Varsity Tutors today for more information. Educational Directors are currently standing by to address any questions you have!

John: STAAR course instructor
I graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in NYC in 2008, the oldest English speaking acting conservatory in the world. I graduated Summa from University of St Thomas with a BA in English, and just wrapped up a MS in Data Science from Northwestern. I'm a huge Red Sox fan and love watching detective shows when I have free time.... Positivity. Always. I believe that if a student is given positive tools and is allowed to understand the material rather than be lectured at, they're more likely to do well in the future.
Education & Certification
- American Academy of Dramatic Arts - Associates, Acting
- University of St. Thomas - Bachelor of Fine Arts, English/Drama
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ACT
- PSAT
- ISEE
- +110 subjects

Oly: STAAR course instructor
...grow, and become problem solvers and leaders of the future. It's hugely rewarding for me whenever someone changes their mind about a subject, displays interest in continuing to study something related to what we've worked on together, or simply becomes proud of their academic improvement and success. My approach to teaching anything involves first engaging with the student, then making sure they have a strong foundation before reinforcing anything that they're struggling on. I love...
Education & Certification
- University of California-San Diego - Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
- Michigan Technological University - non degree, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- PSAT
- STAAR EOC
- SAT Subject Tests
- +138 subjects

Nolan: STAAR course instructor
...school students. I have enjoyed helping all age groups learn - from kids, to college students, to adults. I tutor a wide variety of subjects including math, Spanish, ESL, and test prep. I really enjoy tutoring geometry and algebra or SAT prep. My tutoring strengths include finding multiple ways to explain things for my students and giving real value to the learning process so that information can be retained. Outside of the academic world, I...
Education & Certification
- Ursinus College - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SAT
- ACT
- +40 subjects

Koga: STAAR course instructor
...past two years I taught mathematics at the middle and high school level as a Teach For America corp member in the Dallas Independent School District. I know that the confidence that a student receives when they finally understand a concept that has alluded them is powerful enough to positively impact them in all arenas of their life, not just in school. Confidence in your own ability is a powerful thing! I am excited to...
Education & Certification
- University of Kansas - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- High School English
- Arithmetic
- Reading
- +17 subjects

Madeline: STAAR course instructor
...and I have spent a good amount of time teaching as well. I want all students that I tutor to feel comfortable when I am tutoring them and I believe all students have the ability to improve. I am very comfortable teaching all subjects for grades up to 9th grade and, when dealing with high school courses, I love to tutor most math and science courses including many AP courses. I also have a lot...
Education & Certification
- Johns Hopkins University - Bachelors, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ACT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SAT
- +117 subjects

Jennifer: STAAR course instructor
...education, encouraging students to learn and grow from their mistakes rather than becoming discouraged and giving up. When I was in high school, I struggled a lot with math, and this caused me to view myself as a failure. Working with my own tutors and teachers helped me realize that I am capable of overcoming difficulties through perseverance, and that's a skill that I want to pass on to the students I tutor. Everyone makes...
Education & Certification
- Smith College - Current Undergrad, Education and Child Studies and Theatre
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ACT
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +96 subjects

Kristie: STAAR course instructor
...communities involved were bilingual communities such as the Spanish immersion program in South County and the Kumeyaay native people of East County. I tutored children K-8 in all subjects, especially English, Grammar, Reading, Writing, problem solving, storytelling, Math, organization, and study skills, while pertaining to the open curriculum of "La Clase Magica". I have also tutored elementary-aged children through the YMCA Mentorship program focusing on daily homework tasks and study skills. Since graduation, I have...
Education & Certification
- UC- San Diego - Bachelor in Arts, Communications
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ISEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SSAT
- +28 subjects

Amanda: STAAR course instructor
...and have been dancing professionally for the past 3 years since I graduated in 2012. Working with youth and helping students discover their true potential for success, regardless of background or barriers, has always been a deep-seated passion of mine. I, myself, a first generation college student hailing from a low income family, want to emphasize how important it is to have a growth mindset and to work hard to achieve the goals that are...
Education & Certification
- San Jose State University - Bachelor of Fine Arts, Dance
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- CAHSEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- Study Skills and Organization
- +25 subjects

Andy: STAAR course instructor
...model for students. As my resume demonstrates, I am a Texas certified Social Studies Composite 4-12 and Math 4-8 teacher with Master degree in History and five years of teaching experience in various social studies subjects and math. I started my teaching career as a U.S history and AP Human Geography teacher at Harmony School of Science at Houston, Texas, and at Harmony Science Academy at Houston. I accumulated the rest of my teaching experience...
Education & Certification
- Unversity of Texas at Austin - Bachelors, History
- Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - Masters, History
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +45 subjects

Adriana: STAAR course instructor
...am a retired educator with almost 30 years of experience in the classroom and library. A large part of my classroom instruction involved tutoring in all core subject areas in grades K-5. As a librarian, I had the pleasure of working with middle school teens as a resource and mentor in academic competitions and other activities. My teaching philosophy involves listening to the student and assessing weaknesses and strengths. I use scaffolding to build upon...
Education & Certification
- Southern Methodist University - Bachelors, Broadcast Film
- Southern Methodist University - Masters, Bilingual Education
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT Subject Tests
- TACHS
- SSAT
- +65 subjects

Sharon: STAAR course instructor
My name is Sharon, and I have been an educator for over fifteen years. I am passionate about education. I enjoy using innovative techniques to incorporate skills that will be useful to my students. My goal is to enhance each student's learning and help them rise to a higher level. Some of my hobbies are cooking (I'm a foodie), reading, and going on nice walks or scenic drives.... My teaching philosophy is that every student should have the right to learn and get a quality education. The instruction should be differentiated to aid with different learning preferences and styles.
Education & Certification
- Texas Southern University - Bachelors, Public Affairs
- University of Phoenix - Masters, Management
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ACT
- ISEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +35 subjects

Michelle: STAAR course instructor
...wall that keeps someone from understanding can easily be overcome by changing the perspective. I am a Houston native certified to teach general elementary and secondary history. I taught TAKS prep and second grade in Cy-Fair ISD and currently work as a substitute in Klein. I earned a BA in the Humanities from Brigham Young University in Provo, UT. My studies focused on the fine arts, history, and French. My passions include history, music, photography,...
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University - Bachelor in Arts, Humanities
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- Social Studies
- Comparative Literature
- History
- +24 subjects

Melissa: STAAR course instructor
...two people are alike, so there is no blanket approach to teach. I want to make my lessons fun and engaging, but also be excited about the lesson so that students can also be excited about the subject. I want my students to do the thinking, instead of telling them what they should know. Objectives are stickier stickier when the lesson is something that the student can relate to. I am no-nonsense, but I also...
Education & Certification
- University of Houston - Bachelors, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SSAT
- +84 subjects

Iselee: STAAR course instructor
...I've taught 3rd grade bilingual courses including English and Spanish literacy and grammar as well as math, science, and social studies. I have also tutored high school and university writing and math. I have extensive writing and editing experience as well as lesson planning, curriculum assessment, and critical evaluation ability. A lifelong student, I would be delighted to help you find your passion for learning as well as equip you to independently pursue academic excellence.
Education & Certification
- Loyola Marymount University - Bachelors, Spanish
- Johns Hopkins University - Current Grad Student, Digital Communication
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- +72 subjects

Tom: STAAR course instructor
...I have also helped 8th graders who needed to take assessment tests to enter high school early pass the tests and successfully move up a grade. It is a wonderful experience to help students learn, and many of those whom I work with are really smart but just ned a little guidance, confidence, or an understanding at how to look at a problem a little differently. My main subject areas have been English, Writing, Public...
Education & Certification
- Ohio University-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Interpersonal Commmunication/Business
- University of Phoenix-Dallas Campus - Master of Science, Business Administration/Marketing
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- GED
- Elementary
- +30 subjects

Jeremy: STAAR course instructor
...center. Tutoring can be challenging. In the most difficult sessions, I revisited and retaught material. This requires me to go over the material and also make sure the students understand confusing concepts. I have to be very patient and creative in my teaching. While this might frustrate some tutors, I fully enjoy my job as a tutor. Not only does it give me a sense of accomplishment when I have educated someone on a subject...
Education & Certification
- Baylor University - Bachelor of Science, Biology minor Prehealth
- University of North Texas Health Science Center - Master of Science, Health Management and Policy
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- PSAT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +50 subjects

Matthew: STAAR course instructor
...matter of fact, Calculus was, and still is, my favorite subject. As an Engineer I am also well grounded in Physics and Chemistry. I've always been a good test-taker and I know what it takes to get the grades. I know that it can make a huge difference to have some one-on-one help. I like to have fun with whatever I do, but more than anything, I want to make a difference. In my free...
Education & Certification
- San Diego State University - Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT
- Advanced Placement
- Calculus 3
- +46 subjects

Kewanta: STAAR course instructor
...teacher, I often encouraged my students to explore the topic beyond simple recall. Students were engaged from bell to bell in Math, Reading, Science, and Social Studies. It is important to present information in the best way that students learn. Every learner has different modes of learning and has a propensity to certain multiple intelligences. It is the responsibility of the educator to expose the learner to as many modes and MIs as possible to...
Education & Certification
- Sarah Lawrence College - Bachelor in Arts, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- High School English
- Reading
- +27 subjects

Shelia: STAAR course instructor
I have been in the education field for over 15 years. I love assisting others of all ages in exploring and expanding their learning capacity, which in turn, enriches the quality of their lives. My biggest joy as a teacher is seeing someone come to a full understanding of a concept they could not grasp before. Helping the learner reach those "a-ha" moments is what a teacher does!
Education & Certification
- Prairie View A & M University - Bachelor of Science, Finance
- Oral Roberts University - Master of Arts, Theology
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- HSPT
- ISEE
- SSAT
- +50 subjects

Stacie: STAAR course instructor
...I have traveled around the professional world, I always return to teaching and training. I firmly believe that if you have a strong foundation in teaching philosophies and principles and the willingness to pursue professional development opportunities, you can achieve the most awesome teacher title. I have two basic ideals I like to follow: 1. Stimulate as many senses as possible when teaching to get the message home and 2. Use a higher order of...
Education & Certification
- University of St. Thomas - Bachelor in Arts, Education, English
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- College English
- ESL/ELL
- Test Prep
- +9 subjects