The Role of a Volunteer Tutor
A Volunteer Tutor may decide to be trained in the teaching of Basic Literacy, English as a Second Language and/or U.S Citizenship.
- Basic Literacy (BL): teaches reading and writing to adults who speak and understand English.
- English as a Second Language (ESL): teaches conversational English, survival competencies, reading and writing to non-English speaking adults. (Please note: Tutors do not need to be proficient in a foreign language to teach ESL classes.)
- U.S. Citizenship: prepares adults to pass the test and interview.
A Tutor may also facilitate learning groups such as Reading Clubs or Conversation Groups.
The Requirements & Responsibilities of a Volunteer Tutor
LVGW believes in a student-centered, collaborative process focusing on language experience and real-life needs.
No prior teaching experience is necessary.
Tutors must:
- Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Commit to at least 1.5 hours per week tutoring your student
- Complete the Tutor Training Series to become certified.
- Be able to speak and understand English well enough to communicate clearly.
- Demonstrate proficiency in reading and writing English.
- Commit to one year of service which consists of a minimum of 1½ – 2 hours each week, plus lesson preparation time.
- Submit monthly reports to the LVGW office to monitor tutoring hours and each student’s goals – Please see the RESOURCE Page for Tutor Report links.
- Attend at least one continuing education workshop each year. These workshops provide tips and techniques to enhance teaching skills.
- Demonstrate appropriate behavior.
The Reward to Tutoring: Improve our community by raising literacy levels, learn about other countries and cultures, experience the joy of helping another person achieve personal and/or professional success.
How it works:
- If you interested in becoming a tutor, please call 203-754-1164 to set up a time to meet the team and fill out an application.
- All tutors must attend a detailed pre-match training and onboarding process.
- Tutors are asked to attend at least two additional training workshops per year (offered monthly via Zoom).These sessions cover adult learning principles, working with ESL and ABE students, understanding CASAS assessments, lesson planning strategies, and goal setting.
- All tutors will receive a comprehensive tutor resource kit, including: flash Cards, Oxford Picture Dictionary, LitStart: Strategies for Adult Literacy and ESL Tutors and Tutor (8th Edition)
- Review student assessment information and program expectations prior to being matched.
- LVGW provides individualized support and guidance to each tutor to ensure a successful and rewarding experience.
To learn more about becoming a LVGW Tutor Contact our office at 203-754-1164.