I want to share a great tutor who worked my son for 2 years (5th-7th grade). Fred Lown is a retired long-time middle school English and Social Studies teacher at Runkle. He is one of the most kind, gentle and supportive people I've ever met. In addition to strengthening my son's reading comprehension and writing skills, he improved my son's self esteem around academics generally. He also sparked my son's interest in writing poetry, which my son now says is one of his favorite activities.
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- Karen, Brookline 8th Grader Parent
Fred is the teacher that makes a difference in kids' lives. He just gets them. He listens and talks to them without judgment. He is kind and compassionate, smart without intimidation. What kids call ‘approachable ‘ nowadays. He has a great sense of humor and able to relate to kids with ease.
My son was struggling with English all throughout Middle School. Then we were given Fred’s number. My son started taking lessons when he became a Brookline High School freshman and he was transformed as a student. Not only did his ability to read, write, and analyze the reading material improv significantly, but also my son began to be really interested in reading the books. He is always excited about his lessons and never wants to miss them. I feel that because of Fred’s teaching style my son gained confidence in his Honors English class at BHS.
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As I talk to my son now I feel there is an abyss between the student my son was during Middle School at Runkle and the student he is today after studying with Fred for one year. One of the first comments my son made regarding his lessons with Fred and something that will stay with me forever was: "Mom, is it wrong to love the lessons so much?" At that time I thought it was the biggest compliment a student can give to a teacher.
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- Rita, Brookline High School Parent
Mr. Lown has been an important part of all my five children’s education. He has taught them in Brookline Public School. Later he has been tutoring them and provided great academic support throughout the years of their growth until now. Mr. Lown’s great professional knowledge and skills has helped them in multiple endeavors: college admissions, job resumes, and challenging college courses ranging from psychology to history to English. Mr. Lown’s approach to teaching has not only helped them get successful grades, it inspired them to become intellectually curious, to think critically, and helped them acquire love for reading and writing.
Mr. Lown’s academic support has given my children skills indispensable for their future. Mr Lown’s warmth and congenial personality has helped my children acquire confidence and motivation that are also essential for success. I highly recommend Mr. Lown for all educational and academic needs.
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- Mila P., mother of 5
Mr. Lown was my middle school English professor. But he was FAR more than just that. On top of being a life mentor, he was a role model and a leader in an intangible way. His expectation for me uplifted my abilities to a level I previous thought unattainable. He showed me that my accomplishments were limited only by my imagination and my work ethic. He is one of these teachers who has that non-quantifiable skill to immediately see the potential in each individual and to then get it out of you…all the while gently holding your hand making sure you don't derail in the toughest of moments.
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His teachings have resonated with me through the years. Not so much one thing he said or taught, more just how his style and his way of thinking rubbed off on me, probably the best way to teach, through example. Especially his expectations of being your best. He really pushed me, and for that I am eternally grateful. To him I say thank you. Without his mindful eye and direction, I would not be the person I am today.
- Sam DeFranceschi, Associate Real Estate Broker, Former Student