The Rise of Mihail Iordache: The Boss of Câmpina

Mihail Iordache, a 27-year-old math educator based in Câmpina, is redefining private tutoring by blending unconventional teaching methods with a high-discipline, sports-inspired framework. According to his accounts, his educational center serves over 300 students, utilizing a system that prioritizes rigorous training, merit-based grading, and student accountability to achieve high performance in national exams.

How Does the “Coach” Model Transform Math Education?

He views mathematics through the lens of athletic training, requiring constant practice and discipline. According to Iordache, this approach led to 14 of his students achieving a perfect 10 at the Baccalaureate exam this year, while two others secured a 10 at the National Evaluation.

Iordache’s methods include:

• High-Frequency Testing: Students receive unannounced quizzes via WhatsApp, even during the instructor’s personal time, to ensure continuous engagement.
• Simulated Exam Conditions: The center conducts three internal simulations per month to prepare students for the stress of national testing.
• Flexible, Extended Hours: The center offers an subscription model where students can study for 4–5 hours daily, with some sessions extending until 2:00 or 3:00 AM.

Why Does the Traditional School System Face Criticism?

Iordache argues that the formal school system in Romania is often rigid and plagued by nepotism. After a brief tenure as a substitute teacher at a local school in Câmpina, he resigned, citing that he was discouraged from implementing his own teaching style. He claims that his efforts to organize large study groups were met with resistance from both parents and colleagues.

What Are the Risks of Academic Pressure?

While critics often claim that national exams place excessive pressure on students, Iordache dismisses these concerns as excuses for laziness. He maintains that students must learn to manage stress rather than avoid it. His approach to accountability is strict: he reserves the right to terminate the collaboration with students who engage in bullying, fail to respect his rules, or are obnoxious.

This high-stakes environment extends to his own family. Iordache once employed his parents to supervise student simulations but dismissed them after discovering they were lenient toward students who attempted to cheat. He stated that allowing students to cheat ultimately harms their long-term development.

How Can Students Balance Study and Life?

Despite his “draconian” reputation, Iordache advises against becoming a “nerd” (tocilar). He emphasizes that students need a healthy balance between rigorous study and relaxation. His own life reflects this, as he continues to play football for CS Bordeni in the fifth league, treating the sport as an essential component of his discipline and mental health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the center charge for all students?

No. According to Iordache, he provides free preparation for students from low-income families, as well as orphans and children with autism, ADHD, or Down syndrome.

What is the cost of the subscription?

Subscription fees vary by location: 600 RON per month in Câmpina and 950 RON per month at his center on Dacia Boulevard in Bucharest.

How does Iordache prevent cheating?

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