Q: How can I get involved with the CCLC?
A: There are many ways to get involved. Become a volunteer. Make a donation. Join us at an upcoming event. For more information please call us at 301-934-6488 or fill out our contact form.
Q: I want to be a tutor but do not have a teaching background – does that matter?
A: Not at all! As long as you have a desire to make a difference and are fluent in reading, writing and speaking English, you are an ideal candidate to be a tutor.
Q: How do I become a tutor?
A: All tutors must attend a training program that is scheduled at least 4 times during the calendar year. Learn more HERE. During the pandemic, we are revamping our tutor training to include at least two Zoom sessions and one in-person session, not to exceed two hours each.
Q: How often am I expected to meet with my student?
A: We recommend that you meet with your student once each week for at least one hour. You may, of course, meet more than once a week if your student wishes to do so and you can accommodate that schedule. You will also need preparation time before each tutoring session, which is why we ask for a commitment of at least two hours per week.
Q: What can I expect to happen during the training program?
A: During this training, we will share information with you concerning available tutoring opportunities. You will choose to work with an adult who needs literacy instruction, or with an adult immigrant needing conversation and English language skills. Some adults may also need math instruction if they are preparing for the GED, for example, but you have the choice to tutor only reading /writing if you prefer. The training will give you the information and skills necessary to be a successful volunteer tutor. Things such as teaching techniques, characteristics of adult learners, and books that we use are covered throughout the session. Please note that foreign language is NOT a requirement to tutor an adult immigrant. CCLC will provide you with the skills and materials to work with someone who speaks a different language.
Q: How long does a tutor typically work with a student?
A: The time will vary according to each student’s needs and their motivation to reach their goals. Some tutors work with students for two to three years or longer, while some only work with a student for a few months. This really depends on the student’s needs and motivation. For example, a student who needs to improve math skills in order to pass the GED test will probably not need your help for an extended period of time, but someone who has very low reading skills will need your help for a much longer period of time. If your student leaves and you would like to have another student, we will match you.
Q: Where would I meet with my student?
A: We ask that you meet with your student in a public place such as one of the library branches, BAM, Panera, etc. During the pandemic, most tutoring is being done remotely via FaceTime, GoogleDuo, Zoom, etc. This will also be covered in training.
Q: How do you determine a student’s current literacy level?
A: An initial assessment is made by CCLC’s assessor prior to a student’s assignment to a tutor.
Q: Am I required to turn in any reports?
A: Yes, tutors are required to keep a record of volunteer hours on a monthly basis. We have created a simple form called the Monthly Update Form for this purpose. Also can be found under the Volunteer tab. The information is required by our funding agencies, grant applications and adult literacy organizations.