Mike Hlinak, founder of Cardinal Tutoring
About Mike

A unique blend of business leadership and the classroom.

Hi, I'm Mike Hlinak. I'm a retired educator with more than ten years of classroom teaching experience — and before that, I spent a successful career in business as a CPA and, later, a CEO.

That mix shapes how I tutor. I've sat with students working through Algebra problems, and I've sat in boardrooms making decisions under real pressure. Both taught me the same thing: clear thinking and steady confidence matter more than any single right answer.

I specialize in high school math tutoring and SAT Preparation (TPA Certified) across all subject areas — Math, Reading, and Writing & Language. My goal is simple: help your student build genuine confidence, improve performance, and reach the goals they set for themselves.

I offer both online and in-person tutoring, so we can choose whatever fits your family best.

Contact us

10+ years in the classroom

A retired educator with a decade of experience teaching and supporting high school students.

Former CPA and CEO

A successful business career that brings real-world perspective to how I teach problem-solving and discipline.

SAT specialist

Deep familiarity with the SAT across all subject areas — Math, Reading, and Writing & Language.

Professional Certification

Certified SAT Instructor

Mike Hlinak has completed professional SAT instructor training and earned Full Test Certification (#10223) through standardized tutor training. This certification recognizes demonstrated concept mastery across all sections of the SAT and reflects a commitment to providing students with high-quality, evidence-based SAT instruction.

  • Comprehensive SAT Knowledge

    Demonstrated mastery of all sections of the SAT.

  • Professional Training

    Completed more than 20 hours of standardized SAT instructor training.

  • Personalized Instruction

    Customized one-on-one SAT preparation tailored to each student's strengths and goals.

Patient and personal

Sessions are unhurried and supportive. Students should leave feeling more capable, not more anxious.

Honest communication

Parents get clear updates on progress, plans, and what to expect — no vague reports.

Online or in-person

Choose whichever format suits your family's schedule and learning style.