Neighbors come to BakerRipley to learn skills so they can continue their education and get better jobs. Some students in Adult Educationcome to BakerRipley to learn computer skills for jobs and education. The Volunteer Tutor is a vital role that helps BakerRipley students develop foundational skills in English as a Second Language (ESL) or General Education Development (GED) test preparation (language arts, social studies, science and mathematics).
What will this achieve?
The tutor helps students to: develop more confidence in their academic and professional abilities and advance to the next level of their studies.
What do I need to do in this role?
The Volunteer Tutor:
- Is matched with an Adult Education student for regular tutoring.
- Contacts that student weekly, to schedule a time to meet with them at least one hour a week.
- Meets the student at a pre-scheduled time, online or at a BakerRipley facility.
- Responds to requests and questions from the student about class content and encourages them to take an active lead in their learning journey.
- Helps the student understand concepts by reviewing their class assignments, actual examples from the workplace, etc.
- Helps the student complete practice activities so they can apply what they learn in class.
- Acknowledges and celebrates the student’s efforts and accomplishments so they are encouraged to persist.
- Documents and communicates student progress to program staff.
What do I need to be successful in this volunteer role?
You can succeed in this role and have a lasting, positive impact on the lives of the adults you instruct, as well as their family and the greater Houston community, without any formal teaching experience. To enjoy your volunteer experience and to be successful, you need to:
- Demonstrate cultural sensitivity, foster mutual respect, and interact professionally and warmly with neighbors who come from diverse backgrounds.
- Show patience with students who have low literacy and computer skills.
- Use active listening skills and Plain Language.
- Be comfortable using Zoom or online meeting software.
- Have at least a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and/or TEA certification.
The Adult Education Volunteer Tutor must complete these online trainings:
- Principles of Adult Learning (3 hours)
- Plain Language (1 hour)
- Online tools like Zoom, Google Classroom, and WhatsApp (30 - 60 minutes, as needed)
- Online learning platform (1 hour)
What’s the time commitment?
Once you complete training, you will be matched with a student based on the days and time you can volunteer. We recommend you meet for at least one hour, one day a week during the ten-week class.
Where will I volunteer?
This role is fully remote.
What support will I receive?
The BakerRipley Volunteer Coordinator will support you.
What will I gain?
This opportunity offers:
- A valuable learning experience and networking opportunity.
- Satisfaction knowing you directly improved the literacy situation for a highly motivated neighbor and promoted BakerRipley’s mission to bring resources, education, and connection to them.
- A chance to collaborate with a passionate team of educators who will support you during your volunteer service.
