Upgrade Tutoring 'levels the playing field' for students
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

Upgrade Tutoring owner Nancy Berger helps Aviva Reisch, 16, with her homework at the 5757 Main St. center. Reisch attends Williamsville South High School.

Upgrade Tutoring understands that every student learns at a different rate and has programs to address those needs.

Founded by Nancy Berger of Amherst, Upgrade Tutoring offers SAT prep courses, Regents test reviews, subject-specific tutoring, seminars and programs to address many areas of academic concern.

Berger didn't have to look past her three children to know that all students don't learn in the same way. She said her daughter was very successful in school, while one son struggled with challenges during his teen years.

"Tutoring works. It's the smartest students that know they need help," Berger said. "Some students don't know how to study."

She said the employees at Upgrade Tutoring teach students how to learn and study to be successful in their classes.

With its headquarters at 5757 Main St., near Evans Street, Berger's business grew from, The Homework Club, which she ran from her mother's basement. Now she has 10 locations, several in Buffalo and multiple locations expected to open in southern Erie County.

A lot of focus is on SAT prep courses. Berger is offering a free SAT seminar at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 30 at Williamsville South High School, 5950 Main St. Call 632-9900 for reservations.

"I'm trying to put the students on a level playing field, especially those who can't afford SAT prep courses," she said.

Upgrade Tutoring does offer group and individual SAT training courses at a cost.

"We do not believe that any student should ever walk into an SAT unprepared," she said, adding that it is recommended that students take the test in the spring of their junior year and fall of their senior year.

She added that preparation helps take the anxiety out of the test, which can improve a student's score.

Students can also attend Upgrade Tutoring for one-on-one, subject-specific sessions, to improve general organization skills and to increase their overall developmental level.

Berger said in today's classrooms, teachers don't have the time to focus attention on all the developmental differences in the students.

She said the services provided are customized, with objectives clearly defined for each student.

"We are very outcome-oriented," she added.

Upgrade Tutoring also goes into the community, offering "Surprisingly Simple Secrets of How to Succeed in School." Berger encourages parent-teacher associations, church and youth organizations to take advantage of the seminar.

Berger, a former high school English teacher, with a master's degree in the subject, has 25 years of experience in education and business.

She has found that, more than anything, she wants to impart the "Weeble" philosophy to students.

"When you get knocked down, get back up again," she said. "The difference between failure and success is how one reacts to setbacks."

For information, visit the Web site www.upgradetutoring.com or call 632-9900.