Become a Tutor

Be A Tutor! If you can read, write, and speak English, you can help others open the book to their full potential.

Learn to help others help themselves. No previous teaching experience is necessary, only a desire to help someone learn.

Our most pressing need at the Literacy Council is for volunteer tutors.

Tutors are required to complete one of the Council's new tutor orientations.  You will receive three hours of training.  These orientations are generally scheduled bi-monthly.

Once trained, tutors will meet at locations convenient to both the student and the tutor. In addition, the hours are flexible to meet the demands of busy lifestyles.

Our students are motivated to come to us for many reasons:  out of work, want a better job, becoming a better parent, learning a new language, or joining the ranks of American citizens.  We want our tutors to help these students write new pages in the books of their lives.  The energy you put into your tutoring will be rewarded by the energy with which your student responds.

We are here for you!!! Whether you need a referral for a new text book, help using the computer lab, or just plain, old advice, you can contact us anytime.  Phone, fax, email, or "snail" mail will put you in touch with the support you deserve.

Click Here for the new tutor packet.

JOB DESCRIPTION FOR A TUTOR

JOB TITLE: Volunteer Literacy Tutor

PURPOSE: To teach adults the necessary literacy skills for better survival in our society.

TRAINING: New tutor orientation is three (3) hours and introduces methods in Adult Basic and ESL (English as a Second Language) tutoring.

DUTIES: After being paired with a student, the following is expected:

  •    Meet regularly and punctually with the student.
  •    Get to know the student's long and short-term goals.
  •    Prepare individualized lessons and present them to the student.
  •    Assign achievable learning tasks that student can do independently.
  •    Review the student's independent work and try a new approach when needed.
  •    Evaluate the student's work and give feedback to her/him.
  •    Compliment the student for her/his efforts.
  •    Encourage the student if she/he has difficulty learning a new skill.
  •    Keep record of student's progress.
  •    Report monthly to the Council office on student's progress and any change in schedule.
  •    Tutors are expected to attend at least two professional development opportunities each year.

    • In-services are held monthly (October-May) in order to provide continuing education for tutors.

QUALIFICATIONS: All tutors are required to have a bachelor’s degree. Tutor must be committed to helping individuals develop literacy skills; be respectful of the student and her/his right to confidentiality; and be flexible, friendly, patient, and optimistic. A sense of humor is helpful.

LOCATION: In any location suggested by the Literacy Council, i.e., libraries, churches, schools, restaurants, our office, etc.

HOURS: After completing the orientation, the tutor and student should meet once or twice weekly for a total of 3-4 hours. Scheduling is up to you and your student.

FRINGE BENEFITS: Heightened perception of the world around you, deepened understanding of values and lifestyles different from your own, and satisfaction in helping others achieve their potential.

Resources for Current Volunteers: Click Here!

Follow this link to see all of our current volunteer opportunities: Click here to connect to Volunteer Solutions