Like science, math, or language arts? Become a Virtual Youth Tutor!

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Volunteer tutors provide online learning and encouragement for children grades K-12 who wish to improve their skills in language arts, math, science, and social studies. Three times a year we offer 8-week sessions where a tutor and student are paired up together. Sessions take place online.

Currently recruiting for:

• Math tutors (all grades)
• Science tutors (all grades)
• Language Arts tutors (elementary grades)

K-12 Virtual Tutoring Terms (all on Tuesdays from 4:00 - 6:00 pm Pacific)

• Winter Term will be Tuesdays, January 7 through February 25, 4:00 - 6:00 PM Pacific

Time Commitment

• Time commitment can run between 1-2 hours per week, over the term.
• We offer tutoring in 2-hour blocks on Tuesday evenings, 4:00 - 6:00 pm Pacific.
• Students get a 30-minute slot with a tutor, once a week. We keep the same students with the same tutors in the same time slot each week.
• It is okay if tutors need to miss a day or two per session, due to vacations, etc. But we need to know as soon as possible in advance.
• We recruit for one session at a time, so you are only committing to that term.

Tasks & Responsibilities

• Assist K-12 learners individually in Zoom breakout rooms (Tutors will be asked about their preferred age groups, but we appreciate flexibility)
• Engage learners using open-ended questions to determine their specific needs and goals
• Share knowledge of a subject such as language arts, mathematics, science, or social studies (Tutors will be asked about their preferred subjects, but we appreciate flexibility)
• Be prepared to offer resources (both from the library and reputable online resources) to assist learners
• Use a simple form that can be shared back with students and guardians on what you have covered and the student’s progress.

Skills & Qualifications

• Minimum 18 years or older
• High school or GED diploma
• Fluency in written and spoken English. Fluency in languages other than English is also needed
• Assist K-12 learners in specific subject areas (tutors give preferences to ages and subjects)
• Empathy and a friendly demeanor
• Exceptional communication and active listening skills
• Proficiency using email
• Proficiency or willingness to gain proficiency in Zoom
• Patience, flexibility, and creativity
• Willingness to use a variety of methods to promote understanding with students
• Respect diversity and appreciate diverse learning abilities
• Commitment to helping individuals reach personal educational goals
• Ability to work as part of a team and to collaborate with other volunteers and staff
• Responsible and willing to make it to shifts on time, and cancel with plenty of notice when possible
• Teaching or tutoring experience preferred
• Experience working with kids preferred
• Ability to pass a criminal record check. Results of the records check will be reviewed on an individualized basis. A conviction is not an automatic bar to volunteering.
• Note: the more flexible you are with the grades and subjects you are willing to tutor, the more students you will be able to assist.

Training

• Orientation and ongoing training provided by library staff
• As-needed training for continuing education