Karen was recommended to me by the Los Angeles Unified School District as an English tutor for the CSET exam.  I had no real knowledge of English and literature aside from the general courses I was required to take in under-grad. 

Karen's approach is very practical.  She has a command for her subject matter, and  also made herself available after the tutoring to grade practice essays of mine. I'd like to consider myself one of her success stories, having passed all four sections of the English CSET on the first try.  Many English majors haven't even been able to do that.  Karen is dedicated, knowledgeable, and most importantly - she cares.  
- Miles P.  English Teacher

Something I really appreciated about Karen was the fact that she got to the essence of what I needed to know on every test, whether it was familiarizing myself with 19th Century Victorian authors or writing a comprehensive essay on public speaking.  Add to all of that Karen's well of enthusiasm, energy and encouragement.  Moreover, she always took the time to read and critique my practice essays and answer questions I had about the CSET, despite having dozens and dozens of other students at the time!  - Zach Z.

Karen's class helped me pass and now I have a teaching contract. Funny thing is, I was studying so hard before I met Karen, but I wasn't studying the info in a way that I would be successful.  - C.C.

Dear Karen,
Thanks so much for the great instruction this past week. I can't imagine that I would pass the four CSET exams without your lessons.  Your suggestions have been so helpful to me, I would be lost without them!  Your classes were tough for me, but I appreciate the strength you applied, and I am the better for it. This is a deciding moment in my life. Thanks for helping me to seize the day.
Sincerely, Dan

I have known Ms. McDermott since she first became employed with Los Angeles Unified School District in 2001 as an instructor for our pedagogy and test preparation courses.  She continues to work with our program, teaching subject matter preparation courses for new teachers.  Our teachers constantly report that she has helped them pass all four sections of the CEST English exam, and she is known as “the bomb.”  Many travel long distances to attend her classes.  She is a talented individual and a gifted teacher!

- Lillian Utsumi, Coordinator Los Angeles Unified School District Alternative Certification and Teacher Support Pre-Intern Teaching Program