Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements to be a tutor?

Volunteers need to be high school age or above, pass a criminal background check, and be willing to spend at least one hour each week tutoring for at least one academic school year. Tutoring sessions are held during the school day (approximately 8:40 am - 3:40 pm).

Do I need teaching experience?

Community volunteer tutors are welcomed in our schools.  You do not need to have prior experience in tutoring or any formal training.  Schools of Hope will offer you a variety of methods for receiving adequate orientation and training in order to feel comfortable in your role as a tutor.

Will I have to pay for training?

No, training is at no cost to the volunteers. Volunteers are required to attend one orientation training per semester. On-going training is important to the effectiveness of the program. 

Will I work with the same student each week?

Literacy and math tutors work with students one-on-one under the direction of the classroom teacher. Tutors work with the same student(s) weekly and are able to forge relationships and see their progress throughout the year.

Can I tutor more than one student?

Absolutely! All tutoring sessions are individual so you will just need to extend your time commitment. Some tutors spend several hours a week working with multiple children.

How do I get started?

You start by completing an application and disclosure forms. After reviewing your application our volunteer coordinator will meet with you and then match you with a student(s) based on your time availability and preferences. 

Will I be required to provide supplies or activities?

All supplies and activities are provided by Schools of Hope and will be ready for you when you arrive at the school.  

Where will I be doing the tutoring?

Schools of Hope is launching a pilot program for 2011-2012 at Frank V. Bergman Elementary School located at 3430 Lombard Drive in Manhattan.

Where do I go when I get to the school?

You will need to sign in at the front office each time you visit the school. During the tutor training at the school your volunteer coordinator will introduce you to the teacher and you can visit the classroom and the area where you will be tutoring prior to your first session.

Will I have identification as a Schools of Hope tutor?

You will be given a T-Shirt and a nametag to wear on days that you are the school.

Will I be tutoring in the classroom?

You will be tutoring your student in the library or in one of the Pods at the school. Occasionally, you may need to do some activities in the hallway.

What do I do if I have questions?

Communication is essential. Your volunteer coordinator will be on site when you are at the school. Ask questions, share ideas, get to know the staff and other volunteers. Don’t hesitate to call, leave a note, email or ask for a meeting to discuss any concerns or suggestions. The teacher is in demand with classroom responsibilities, so use your volunteer coordinator as much as possible.

What is required outside of the weekly commitment?

We require no further involvement outside of your tutoring time. We do encourage all tutors to attend our tutor trainings offered twice a year.

What if I have to miss a week or more?

We all have times when illness, vacations or job responsibilities will force us to miss a week. Consistency is important for children so we ask volunteers to please notify the volunteer coordinator as soon as possible so the child can be informed and not be disappointed or worried by an unexplained absence. If you need to cancel within 24 hours of your tutoring time please call the school directly. We will provide you with a list of other volunteers who you may contact to stand in for you.  If for some reason, you need to end your involvement before the end of the semester/year please let the volunteer coordinator know as soon as possible. Children bond closely with tutors and it is best for the child’s self- esteem to ensure positive closure before we introduce a replacement.

I travel for part of the year. Can I still be a tutor?

No problem. Please note your schedule on your application and notify your Schools of Hope Volunteer coordinator as soon as possible. Arrangements can be made for the child during your extended absence.

Can I do things with the child outside of the program/school?

Schools of Hope only allows volunteers to work with children at the school.

Can I give gifts to the student I am tutoring?

The best gift you can give to a child is your time and attention.  If you want to provide a treat for the entire class, please contact your volunteer coordinator. Arrangements may possibly be made with the teacher.

How else can I support Schools of Hope?

You can make a donation to Schools of Hope.  Our program is funded through private donations. 2011-2012 is a pilot year with limited reach but, with community support, we will be able to expand into every school in the district. Another way of giving is to spread the word about Schools of Hope to help inform other potential tutors and supporters about the program.