Welcome!
Hi! My name is Nate Madden and I’m the owner & operator of Crane Studios. After 11 years teaching 4th & 5th grade in a Montgomery County Public Schools classroom, I’m now offering extracurricular programming at several schools, as well as tutoring in the Montgomery County, MD and greater Washington, DC area! I earned my Master’s degree in Elementary Education, a post-graduate certificate in Educational Equity & Justice, and over a decade of classroom experience. I am well-versed in Montgomery County’s curriculum and testing requirements. You may know me as Mx. Madden from over at Cold Spring Elementary!
I’ve also taken this leap from my former career to pursue my life-long passion for art. I offer design services as well as small stationery and gift items, all designed and made by me. Thank you so much for taking the time to consider me for whatever needs you may have.
If you’re curious about anything at all, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Who I am
Services I Offer
I have a very gentle and considerate teaching style. My philosophy is heavily based on my belief that kids are full human beings, capable of so much more than many give them credit for. I am fully committed to anti-racist and anti-bias educational practices and resources. I like to meet students where they are and help them to realize their capabilities. My students consistently mention that they love my calm demeanor, humor, and kind communication. I also have experience in teaching students with ADHD, Autism, and other learning disabilities and differences. Additionally, I have expertise working with gifted students and twice-exceptional students.
Extracurricular Programming
This is for if you’re an MCPS elementary school PTA member looking for after school programming. Clubs typically include eight to ten 60-minute sessions of fun and learning.
You can use the Kiddo platform to find me if your school uses it, or you can inquire by email.
Clubs include:
Creative Writing Club
Comic Creation Club
Illustration Club
Breakfast Club
and More!
Private Tutoring
Primarily serving students in grades 3-6, but open to all. Sessions are available in-person or online via Google Meet. Rates vary based on session length and location. Discounted rates and more flexible scheduling are available.
Subjects include:
Reading Comprehension Narrative Writing
Informational Writing Opinion Writing
Math & Basic Algebra Research Science
Social Studies Homework Help Study Skills
Executive Functioning Google & Chromebook
Art Fundamentals Illustration Comics
Creative Writing and More!
Group Classes & Tutoring
This option is ideal for tutoring several students (siblings, classmates, etc.) simultaneously in the same subject matter or holding a small-group class for children of similar ages in a broad topic. Rates vary based on session length, location, and number of pupils. Discounted rates and more flexible scheduling are available.
Subjects include:
Reading Comprehension Narrative Writing
Informational Writing Opinion Writing
Math & Basic Algebra Research Science
Social Studies Homework Help Study Skills
Executive Functioning Google & Chromebook
Art Fundamentals Illustration Comics
Creative Writing and More!
Design & Art Shop
I have graphic design experience and can meet any of your needs. I also provide custom art commission services. My shop is also stocked with some of my stationery, gifts, and more!
Offerings include:
Graphic Design
Stationery
Gifts
Illustration & Painting
Various Mediums
Physical & Digital
and More!
What People Are Saying
“My child didn’t like writing before and I didn’t know how to help, because I struggle with writing too, but with you guiding him, he enjoyed every writing project he worked on.”
— Parent Email
“I thank you for bringing sensitivity and awareness on the topics of race, culture, different backgrounds, etc... The kids will learn a lot from you.”
— Parent Email
“We will always be grateful for how well you took care of our children.”
— Parent Email
“I have enjoyed literacy with you so much… it is now my favorite subject! I have learned so much since I came to your class.”
— Arman, Student
“You always brighten up my day with your jokes. You always make sure that we have a great understanding of our projects before you let us start them.”
— Silvia, Student
“Since joining your class, we’ve noticed a new sense of sincerity in [our child], and he’s genuinely enjoying the process. He would never engage in something he doesn’t enjoy… He is interested in more reading and writing now.”
— Parent Email
“You have taught me so much. You are a kind, caring, thoughtful, and funny teacher… One thing I love about how you teach is that you never avoid the truth… Another thing I appreciate is that you like to involve art in our projects.”
— Kashvi, Student