Our Team

Our specially trained math instructors will teach your child how to understand math in an individual setting; our unique approach enables us to explain concepts really well and lend a helping hand to every student. Our tutors foster a caring, encouraging environment that helps kids thrive and learn! Read below to learn more about our talented team:

Derek Pipkorn, Owner/Center Director 

Hi! I'm Derek,  the Owner and Center Director of Mathnasium of Mequon. Prior to opening this Mathnasium center, I worked as a Middle School Math Specialist and Honors Geometry teacher in the Mequon-Thiensville School District. I actively worked with Mequon-Thiensville District leaders to push math education forward in the district. I also previously taught elementary and middle school students in Milwaukee Public Schools and the West Allis-West Milwaukee School District. I have a Masters of Educational Leadership from Cardinal Stritch University and a BS in Middle Childhood - Early Adolescence Education with math emphasis from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

I've been actively involved in math organizations at the State and National level. I was previously the chair of the Classroom Resources Committee for the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and recently finished a term on the Board of Directors for the Wisconsin Math Council. I have taught and tutored children of all ages, and I am committed to bringing the Mathnasium Method to the children in the Ozaukee County area. Married to Jillian, dad to Lucy, and dog owner of Willie (corgi), I love staying active in the community and enjoying all that the Greater Milwaukee area has to offer.

Mary, Lead Instructor

Hi there! I’m Mary and I am proud to be an instructor at Mathnasium of Mequon. I am originally from New York, and have taught mathematics in NY, MO, IL, and WI. I have a BA in Math from the University of Rochester (NY), MS Ed. from SUNY/Oswego, and an MA in Math from DePaul University (IL). I am also a National Board Certified Teacher! My husband and I have really enjoyed discovering the beautiful state of Wisconsin. I especially enjoy working with learners to strengthen their number sense. I hope to help learners view mathematics as a "fun" opportunity and grow confident in their skills! I believe mathematics has value in many of my hobbies: photography, textile crafts, cooking, running, and reading!

Kurt, Instructor

Greetings and salutations, I’m Kurt! For 35 years I taught my 4th-8th grade students that MATH IS BEAUTIFUL!  As a recently retired educator from the Mequon-Thiensville School District I am excited to bring my love of math to Mathnasium of Mequon! I have an Elementary Education degree with an emphasis in mathematics from Stevens Point University and a Masters degree in Educational Computation from Cardinal Stritch University. I have provided math instruction and math intervention in both the middle and elementary school setting.

I love the outdoors and especially enjoy golfing on all of the beautiful courses our area has to offer.  I am a huge sports fan, and while my playing days are over I support all our local teams.  My wife Kris and I have two adult sons and a beautiful granddaughter!

Tricia, Instructor

Hi! I’m Tricia and I am really excited to be an instructor here at Mathnasium of Mequon. I was a Special Education teacher for Kindergarten - 12th graders, with an emphasis on the deaf and hard of hearing. I have a Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction.  I love working with kids of all abilities and levels. My children went through the Mequon-Thiensville School District (Jordan, Simah, and Sari), which means I spent a lot of time volunteering in classrooms, working with students, being a girl scout leader, as well as a PTSO Past President at Homestead. 

I love being involved in the Mequon community and was also the President of the Mequon Junior Woman’s Club.  I volunteered at Milwaukee College Prep, a charter elementary school, working one on one and in small groups with students. Now that my son has graduated college, and my daughters are away at college, I am really looking forward to working with students at Mathnasium and helping them develop great math skills and a true love of math!

Erin, Instructor

Hi! I’m Erin, and I’m incredibly excited to be an instructor here at Mathnasium of Mequon. I’m currently a senior at Homestead High School where I am currently taking Multi-Variable Calculus. I was recognized as the Top Math Student as an 8th grader at Steffen Middle School (and was a student of Derek's in Honors Geometry). I've ranked nationally with the Homestead Debate Team, scored a 35 on the ACT, involved in National Honors Society, and I'm an AP Scholar of Distinction (passed over 5 AP tests). Through my studies, it’s become apparent that math is integral to the foundation of understanding any other field and is applicable to so many different situations. In my spare time I enjoy singing, running, embroidery, and spending time with loved ones.