If the kids were late for online tutoring, I’d call their mom (my aunt) and ask where they were. When we finally got on the phone or instant messaging, my first questions would be along the lines of, “Were you able to do the practice problems I assigned you?” or “How’d the practice go last night?” If they did the work, I’d compliment them for putting in the effort, and we’d jump into their questions or we’d move forward on new subject matter. If they didn’t do what they said they’d do, I’d hold them to account. These conversations provided me with context as we worked together to create new
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