Strong grades. Disappointing test scores. Let's close that gap.

 

1:1 and small‑group coaching for high‑achieving students whose SAT/ACT and advanced class performance lag their potential.

 

Student? Read this first.

See how to work with Kevin

Is this your child?

Many of the families I work with say:

  • “Their GPA is strong, but their SAT/ACT scores are lower than they should be.”
  • “They understand the material in precalculus / AP chem, but test grades are disappointing.”
  • “They study a lot, feel like they did well, and then the score comes back and it hurts.”
  • “They’re aiming for selective schools, and we’re worried scores will hold them back.”

If that sounds familiar, your student doesn’t need more random practice problems. They need a system for how to prepare and perform when it counts.


See how I work with families.


 

How I help

I focus on a small number of motivated students in two main areas:

1. SAT / ACT test prep (flagship)

For high‑achieving students whose scores lag their GPA, I help them:

  • Choose the right test (SAT vs ACT)
  • Build a plan around full‑length timed practice exams
  • Review every miss to fix thinking and patterns, not just individual questions
  • Develop coping strategies for test anxiety so they can execute on test day

Coaching is offered in:

  • 1:1 format for families who want maximum personalization
  • Small groups for students who like a team environment and want a more affordable way to use the same system

We’ll decide which format fits best on the fit call.

2. Advanced math & science classes

For students doing well in class but underperforming on tests in courses like precalculus, calculus, chemistry, or physics, I help them:

  • Turn scattered studying into clear weekly plans
  • Use practice tests and textbook problems strategically
  • Build repeatable approaches for complex, multi‑step questions

Same principles, different context: clear systems, full practice, deep review, and consistent weekly work.


 

Why families choose Kevin

Parents tell me they choose to work with me because:

  • I stay calm and steady when scores dip instead of hitting the panic button.
  • I use full tests and deep review so students learn how they’re thinking, not just which answers are wrong.
  • I’m personally invested in each student’s goals, and I stay in touch so parents always know what’s happening.
  • The systems we build spill over into AP classes and college coursework, not just one exam.

“Other tutors hit the panic button when scores dip. Kevin stayed calm, kept the goal on the table, and simply said, ‘Let’s change the strategy.’ That made all the difference.”
– Parent of a test‑prep student

Results from students like yours

Here are a few examples of what families see when we put a system in place:

  • A high‑achieving student whose grades outpaced his test scores pivoted to the exam that fit him best, drilled full practice tests, and raised his scores enough to earn admission to a highly selective, top‑10 university.
  • A student went from a 31 ACT with a 26 in math to a 36 overall with a 35 in math after using a more methodical study approach and learning to identify why he was missing questions instead of just “trying harder.”
  • A student who felt she was “just bad at standardized tests” saw her scores improve within a few sessions and gained confidence that carried over into her advanced classes.

“Other tutors hit the panic button when scores dip. Kevin stayed calm, kept the goal on the table, and simply said, ‘Let’s change the strategy.’ That made all the difference.”
– Parent of a high‑achieving test‑prep student

“I went from a 31 ACT with a 26 in math to a 36 overall with a 35 in math. Kevin’s methods work, period.”
– Charlie

Want to see more outcomes?

See more student results

How working together works

Step 1: Short application + choose a time (2–3 minutes)
You’ll pick a time on my calendar for a 20‑minute fit call then answer a few questions about your student (grade, recent SAT/ACT scores or advanced class performance, goals, key dates, and how willing they are to do weekly work). I also ask you to confirm that you understand this is a premium, 1:1 coaching relationship so we’re on the same page from the start.

Step 2: 20‑minute fit call
On this call, we’ll talk through:

  • Your student’s situation and goals
  • Whether SAT, ACT, or course‑specific coaching makes the most sense
  • What kind of plan and commitment would realistically be required

If I don’t think I’m the right fit, I’ll tell you plainly.

Step 3: Customized plan
If we decide to move forward, I’ll map out:

  • Session cadence (typically weekly 1:1, with small‑group options for SAT/ACT)
  • Practice test expectations and review rhythm (for SAT/ACT) or test plan (for advanced classes)
  • How we’ll communicate about progress and adjust along the way

Step 4: Weekly execution + progress checks
Your student and I meet regularly, run the plan, and adjust based on real scores and real tests. You stay in the loop without having to micromanage.

Start the Application

About Kevin (and speaking)

I’m Kevin Doty, a tutor and coach who helps high‑achieving students turn “I thought I was just bad at tests” into consistent, confident performance on the days that matter.

I combine an engineering background with years of test‑prep and advanced‑class coaching to build systems that work under pressure, not just on homework. Families describe me as calm, even‑keeled, and deeply invested in their kids’ goals.

In addition to 1:1 and small‑group coaching, I’m available to speak to:

  • School and counselor groups
  • Parent associations
  • Community organizations

Typical topics include building effective study systems, handling test anxiety, and helping strong students whose scores lag their grades.

Interested in having me speak to your group? Contact me here.


 

Final call to action

If your student’s story sounds like the ones on this site, the next step is simple.

See how to work with Kevin