HomeScholar Grove is a vision of Heidi and James Bear. In about the year 2020, it became evident to us that the changes which had been occurring slowly in education catalyzed and the world of education was changing drastically. Both of us were (and are) deeply entrenched in the world of education and rather than watch things change around us, we have decided to see the changes for what they are and help as many kids — regardless of their circumstances — be as successful as they can be.

Heidi knew from an early age that she wanted to teach. Life stepped in, however, and found her raising her three children rather than pursuing her teaching dream until her youngest child was of school age. She has bachelor’s degrees from both Valley City State University and University of Jamestown. She also has a master’s degree in Reading Instruction from University of North Dakota. She has experience teaching 2nd grade, 4th grade, and 7th – 12th grade English. In addition, during her entire teaching career she has served as a Title I coordinator specializing in determining the needs of kids. Her teaching credentials can be found here. She currently serves as a 7th – 12th English teacher in small-town North Dakota.

James was never as clear about his purpose as Heidi. He has a bachelor’s degree from Valley City State University and master’s degrees in curriculum and instruction from University of Jamestown and educational leadership from North Dakota State University. He has experience teaching 7th – 12th English, 2nd – 12th computer science, and driver education. He also has experience as secondary principal. His teaching credentials can be found here. He currently serves as assistant professor of teacher education at University of Jamestown where he teaches Assessment and Evaluation, Instructional Media and Technology, Secondary Reading Instruction, Introduction to Education, and the four courses required for teachers to become certified to teach driver education in North Dakota.

Having raised three successful children of our own, we understand the sense of responsibility and urgency with ensuring that your kids have what they need under your care. We respect the educational decisions of parents whatever they may be. We also understand the stressors that come pre-packaged with some of those decisions and the feeling that you’re not quite sure whether or not you are doing your best. Our combined education and experience — both in education and child-rearing — position us well to help. Whether you are home-schooling your kids or need help with your school-bound kids, we can meet those needs.

We intend to offer a variety of educational services ranging from parental support to diagnostics and placement to one-on-one virtual tutoring.