If you would like to help an adult learner improve their reading, writing or math skills, ETLC provides training, materials and ongoing support. Opportunities are available as one-to-one tutors or small group tutors for basic literacy students, or classroom instructors in ESL. You do not have to know another language to help in ESL!
Basic Literacy
Volunteer tutors are trained to help adults improve their reading, writing, and/or math skills. Tutors participate in 4 hours of training classes and are provided with the necessary materials to use with their students.
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Volunteers work one-on-one with students or assist staff with small groups to help adults learn to speak, read, and write English. Volunteers are trained and provided with materials. Volunteers do not have to know another language.
FAQs: Volunteer Tutors
Do I need a teaching background to become a Literacy Tutor?
Absolutely not. While we welcome those with teaching experience, you do not need teaching experience to become a volunteer. Instead you just need the heart and desire to commit to helping someone else. You also do not need to know a second language to tutor someone in the process of learning English.
Do I need to go through any training? If yes, how long is it and what is the cost?
You must complete approximately 4 hours of training that includes practice and demonstration of teaching techniques, lesson planning, and an introduction to various helpful materials. There is no cost for the training or the materials. The training sessions are offered twice a year. For those who are unable to attend, flexible training opportunities are available. Please contact the Literacy Coordinator.
What is the time commitment?
We ask our volunteers to meet with their students a minimum of 3 hours per week for a minimum of six months. You are also expected to report the hours you meet with your student and their progress on a regular basis.
What happens if I need to miss a meeting with my student?
You or your student may have valid reasons for missing some tutoring sessions, but we ask that each party inform the other in advance of an absence.
Where do I meet with my student?
We provide places at our main site at the Longview News-Journal. You also are free to use any other public location which is convenient for you and your student. Some of our tutors and students have met at the library, at churches, or even coffee shops.
What happens if I don’t feel the match is working out?
You should contact our Literacy Coordinator, who will talk with you about your concerns and either try to help resolve them or rematch you with another student.
What kind of support can I expect in meeting my student’s needs?
ETLC offers a variety of resources and programs to support your work including:
- A resource library where you can find appropriate material to use with your student.
- Additional free-in-service or networking sessions to learn new techniques and brush up on old ones.
- Ongoing availability of the Literacy Coordinator and other staff for advice and support.
Want to Volunteer?
To find out more about becoming a volunteer, please fill in the form below with a description of how you would like to help.
