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

Hi! I'm Derek,  the Owner 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.

Jordan, Center Director

Hi, I'm Jordan Kaminski, the Center Director for Mathnasium of Mequon. I have a passion and love for teaching and mentoring students. I work to develop a true partnership among the student, parents, school, and Mathnasium staff to provide the support a student needs to develop and improve math understanding and achievement. Mathnasium is meaningful to me because students make impressive gains in math, but also improve self-confidence, homework habits, and attitudes toward school. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh with a degree in Political Science. As a former tennis coach, I've always had a love for education. A fun fact about me: I was on Season 5 of MasterChef with Gordan Ramsay! I'm looking forward to getting to know all of the families that come through our doors, and the community to continue to grow our center! 

Tricia, Assistant Center Director

Hi! I’m Tricia and I am really excited to be the Assistant Center Director 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!

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!

Erin, Instructor

Hi! I’m Erin, and I’m incredibly excited to be an instructor here at Mathnasium of Mequon. I graduated from Homestead High School and I'm currently attending Northeastern University. 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.