Our Founder

Alex Toumayan is a passionate educator with a unique blend of expertise in neurobiology, mathematics, and computer science. Originally from Granada Hills, California, Alex’s academic journey began with a fascination for mathematics and medical research, ultimately leading him to the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned dual degrees in Computer Science and Neurobiology. His time at Berkeley was marked by groundbreaking work in integrating advanced computer science with neurobiology, with the aim of leveraging machine learning to address neurological disorders.

The inspiration behind founding Toumayan Tutors came from Alex’s own experiences as a student and mentor. Growing up, he recognized the profound impact of having a strong educational foundation and the right guidance. Witnessing students struggle with traditional approaches to learning motivated Alex to create a tutoring service that emphasizes personalized education, curiosity, and critical thinking. His vision was to build a space where students of all backgrounds could receive tailored instruction that not only addresses their academic challenges but also inspires them to see the joy in learning.

With over eight years of tutoring experience and a proven track record of helping students achieve remarkable academic growth, Alex has dedicated his career to creating innovative learning experiences. As a instructor at Aspen Learning Lab, Alex specializes in designing advanced mathematics and computer science curricula for high-achieving students, fostering their analytical and problem-solving skills. His ability to connect with students of all backgrounds has been a cornerstone of his approach.

Through his work as a private tutor and roles like Curriculum Coordinator at Youth Code Now, Alex has reached hundreds of students, combining personalized teaching strategies with a deep understanding of their unique needs. His philosophy centers on cultivating curiosity, critical thinking, and professionalism in students, helping them develop the skills and confidence to thrive academically and personally.

Outside the classroom, Alex is an advocate for innovation in education and a proponent of lifelong learning. His goal is to inspire students to embrace their potential and build their own paths to success, empowering them to tackle complex challenges with creativity and resilience.

As an educator deeply committed to fostering academic excellence and personal growth, my teaching philosophy is anchored in the belief that every student is unique, with distinct learning needs and potentials. I begin by thoroughly assessing each student's strengths, weaknesses, and preferred learning styles, whether they be visual, auditory, tactile, or a combination. This understanding forms the foundation of a tailored pedagogical approach designed to maximize individual learning outcomes.

In my classroom, conceptual understanding takes precedence. I emphasize the importance of grasping the underlying principles and theories before engaging in problem-based learning. This approach not only prepares students for standardized assessments but also nurtures a profound comprehension of the subject matter. It's essential to view education not as a one-size-fits-all model but as a flexible, adaptable process that recognizes and respects each student's unique learning journey.

Inspiration plays a vital role in my teaching methodology. By sharing personal achievements and those of historical figures who have overcome similar challenges, I aim to motivate students and demonstrate the attainable nature of success. This narrative style helps students relate to the material on a personal level, fostering a deeper connection and engagement with their studies.

A cornerstone of my educational approach is proof-based learning. Students are encouraged to delve into the foundational causes and concepts that form the "laws" of their subject. This method is exemplified in activities like creating their own textbooks, where students articulate and explore key concepts in their own words. For instance, while teaching Calculus BC, I guided students through the process of elucidating and proving mathematical concepts such as derivatives and integrals, before applying them in practical problem-solving scenarios.

Assessment and feedback are integral to my practice, combining theoretical and conceptual understanding questions with the necessities of standardized testing. This balanced approach ensures that while students meet the external academic requirements, they also develop a robust internal understanding of the subject matter.

Finally, my teaching is deeply influenced by the Socratic method, fostering an environment where questioning and critical thinking are not only encouraged but celebrated. I strive to cultivate thinkers and creators, individuals who are intellectually curious and question the world around them. My ultimate goal is to empower students to become independent, thoughtful, and well-rounded individuals, ready to navigate and contribute to an ever-changing world.

TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

EDUCATION

EXPERIENCE

Bachelors of Arts in Computer Science
Bachelors of Arts in Neurobiology
Emphasis in Neuroscience
Dean’s Honor List
University of California, Berkeley

1. Instructor at Aspen Learning Lab (Los Angeles, CA, Sep. 2023 – Present)

Design and deliver advanced mathematics and computer science curricula tailored for high-achieving students from high-net-worth backgrounds.
Develop enrichment programs and provide specialized training in competitive mathematics, fostering analytical and strategic problem-solving skills.
Customize learning pathways to accelerate academic growth, catering to individual strengths and preparing students for academic competitions.

1. Private Tutor (Self-Employed, Granada Hills, CA, Jan. 2018 – Present)

Developed and implemented effective SAT preparation strategies, significantly improving student scores (1350-1550 range).
Provided tutoring in advanced mathematics, chemistry, biology, and physics, using personalized and interactive learning methods.
Adapted teaching approaches to cater to a diverse range of learners, including those with educational disabilities.

2. Tutor at Tutor Me Education (Nov. 2023 – Jun. 2024)

Specialize in tutoring students from low-income and differently-abled backgrounds, emphasizing educational and personal development.
Employ individualized teaching strategies to build foundational knowledge and assist with college planning.
Utilize a unique approach in each tutoring session to accommodate the specific learning styles and needs of each student.

3. Curriculum Coordinator/Instructor at Youth Code Now (Richmond, CA, Oct. 2022 – May 2023)

Designed and implemented a comprehensive curriculum focusing on coding, robotics, and mathematics for underserved children.
Collaborated with educators and community partners to create engaging and effective educational content.
Continuously updated the curriculum to align with evolving educational standards and student needs.

4. Teacher’s Assistant, Math Department at UC Berkeley College of Letters and Science (Berkeley, CA, Jan. 2021 – May 2021)

Assisted in teaching a graduate-level course (MATH 256A) in algebraic geometry.
Conducted problem-solving sessions and provided academic assistance, contributing to a 100% pass rate.
Offered feedback on assignments and exams, enhancing students’ critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Assessment and Discovery

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Our Teaching Roadmap

We begin by assessing each student's knowledge, from foundational skills to their current grade level, identifying strengths and areas for improvement. This in-depth evaluation helps us understand their unique pain points, forming the foundation of our roadmap.

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Customized Learning Plan

Based on the assessment, we create a specialized plan targeting each student's needs. This formula evolves as we address their challenges, ensuring steady progress and engagement through lessons tailored to their interests.

a group of people sitting at a table with papers and headphones

Structured Skill Building and Support

Our curriculum doesn’t stop at knowledge. We instill professional habits—like organization and sophisticated study techniques—that empower students to approach learning with confidence. Regular updates, a digital library for parents, and relevant, real-world examples keep learning dynamic and transparent.

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Ongoing Evaluation and Resources

We provide comprehensive reports, additional resources, and a digital library, allowing parents to track progress and provide at-home support. Our roadmap ensures every student is equipped to continue learning beyond our sessions.