Frequently Asked Questions For Tutors

What do tutors do?

Volunteer tutors can work independently or in partnership with another tutor to teach one student, a small group of students, or a small class of adult learners to help students achieve their goals and function more successfully in society.

Do I need a degree in teaching to be a tutor?

No. You don’t need a teaching background or foreign-language skills to be a tutor. We provide the training you’ll need to help your students meet their short-term and long-term learning goals.

What would I teach?

Chatham Literacy offers instruction in reading, writing, basic math, Spanish Literacy, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), GED (high school equivalency) preparation, citizenship preparation, and Financial Literacy. As a tutor, you can choose the subject or subjects you are most comfortable teaching. We’ll match you and your students based on your skills and interests and on their needs.

What’s involved in tutor training?

All tutors must connect with a Program Coordinator and complete a volunteer application form, undergo a background check, complete online training (unless they have prior tutor experience), review the tutor manual, schedule a 1.5 hr orientation meeting with the Program Coordinator, complete shadowing opportunities, and attend at least 3 tutor support sessions. All tutor training steps are overseen by a Program Coordinator. 

Would I need to pay for my training or teaching materials?

No. It’s all available at no cost to you.  Materials include everything from handouts you’ll use during your tutor training to workbooks and teacher guides you’ll use with students.

How often would I be expected to tutor?

We’d like for you to commit to at least one tutoring session per week. We’ve found that students make better progress if they attend at least two one-on-one or class sessions each week. Sessions typically last one to two hours.

Is it possible to work tutoring around my regular job?

Absolutely. You and your student(s) will arrange a time and place that works well for everyone. You most likely will meet in a convenient public space such as a library, restaurant, or church. If you prefer to teach a small group class, you can choose from our schedule of classes, which are offered at various times of day.

How can I sign up or learn more?

Our Volunteer Coordinator will be happy to talk with you. You can reach us at 919-742-0578. You also can complete and submit our Tutor Application form and we’ll be in touch!

What happens after I fill out my application?

You will be asked to schedule a meeting with Chatham Literacy’s volunteer coordinator to find out more about time commitments and programming. This meeting can be face-to-face, over the phone, or through a video call such as Skype, FaceTime, or Google Hangout. Depending on each volunteer’s questions, the meeting can last from half an hour to an hour. If you are interested in continuing with your training, you will have some brief assigned reading and short videos to do on your own time.

Do I receive an orientation before volunteering?

After finishing the assignments from your initial interest meeting, schedule another time to meet with the volunteer coordinator in person so you can learn more about the logistical aspects of volunteering with Chatham Literacy. You will see how to fill out tutor reports every month and learn how we assess our students. You will also sign a tutor agreement that outlines our responsibilities to you as one of our volunteers and the expectations we have of our volunteers. Lastly, you will have another brief assignment that entails shadowing a tutor and familiarizing yourself with our tutor manual.

Can I receive face-to-face or online training? 

Yes! We will arrange for you to meet other new tutors, hear from experienced tutors, discuss previous assignments, and delve into planning for your student(s).

To schedule your interest meeting, contact our Volunteer Coordinator at 919-742-0578.