Harry Clements

Spanish Teacher

Classes taught: 

• Spanish 1-4 

• AP Spanish Language and Culture 

• AP Spanish Literature and Culture 

I was born in San Francisco and raised in Hollister, and I attended college at the University of Nevada, Reno, where I received my bachelor’s in Spanish literature. I recall few of my past teachers well, but those whom I do remember had the ability to help me past my problems, both personal and academic. They are ultimately the reason I pursued a career in tutoring and teaching.

Spanish and language are passions of mine. I developed my love for language towards the end of high school when a group of students from my school traveled to Mexico for a few weeks. From the moment I was able to effectively communicate in another language, I knew Spanish and foreign languages would be a part of my life forever.

I began tutoring because at one point in time, I struggled with language acquisition myself, and I wanted to help others with similar challenges. I quickly realized helping others succeed with their academics, and in mastering languages in particular, gives me a great sense of accomplishment and brings me so much joy. 

Over the years, I have taught students in all K-8 subjects, ESL, and Spanish. I have worked as a teaching aide for schools in Reno, Nevada; as a tutor in Baja, Mexico;  and I am currently the Spanish teacher for our private school, Cypress College Prep. These opportunities have given me ample time to develop myself as a tutor, though I’m always looking for new strategies and activities to improve my work with my students.

I enjoy working with students in a 1-on-1 setting as it allows me to identify their strengths and challenges through discussion with the student and close review of their work. I can then help students improve their skills through the development of new study skills and habits and by breaking down the material in a way tailored to the student’s learning styles. I take pride in my ability to take what seems like a complex concept and explain it in basic terms. It’s always rewarding to me to see students conquer material that they thought they would never understand.

Outside of teaching, you will find me spending time at the beach or reading up on mesoamerican archeology.