What Tutors Say

About why they tutor

Education turns lives around. I wanted to be a part of that.
- Lillie Kramer
Reading and writing are vital to meaningful participation in all areas of U.S. society - from shopping at the grocery store to voting for presidential candidates.
- Waunetah Goins
Someone needs to help students that fail in school. The education system is inclined to view the student as a failure rather than the method of teaching used or the time span allowed to learn in.
- Bonnie Dressel
I felt that by volunteering to help someone learn, I could be a true servant.
- Patricia E. Boone

About the first meeting with a student

We were both nervous and hesitant. I tried to emphasize that we're in this together and that asking questions was an important indicator for me to help determine which direction to go.
- Tutor
I had my student dictate his reason and goal for coming to the learning center.
- Marcia Clausen
I was completely amazed at how motivated and wise my student was and has continued to be.
- Tutor
I noticed how much the student taught me. It's definitely a shared learning experience.
- Todd Johnson

About a memorable moment with a student

One day, my student came to class walking three feet off the floor. She had read an entire book - the first one she had read in her 40-year life! As she cried tears of joy, I cried with her.
- Betty Russell
My student spoke at a graduation ceremony at the local office. He explained how much the experience meant to him and encouraged other students not to quit. And the student wrote on his GED essay exam, "Even if you can't read, you're not dumb."
- Tutor
I particularly value the moments when the trust we have developed is demonstrated. It might be when my student tells me things about his past or present life (which may shed light on his literacy circumstances) or when he takes correction and guidance from me easily and comfortably, even enthusiastically at times.
- Roxanne Duniway
When the student realizes she's not dumb and gets that "Aha - I know this" look. It's a thrill for me and the student both.
- Tutor
Each student with whom I have worked has taught me something and broadened my understanding of people of different ages. At our last session together, one of my students said, "Now I can do something besides watch TV."
- Tutor
My first student took me out to lunch when I moved away. By then, I realized he had been to the restaurant ahead of time with his wife so that he could know what to order from the menu. I was touched and again amazed at the way he covered up his inability to read.
- Tutor
It has been a rich and rewarding experience. As each class ends, I feel as though I have lost some of my family. Now at 93, I feel years younger because I've had contact for 12 years with people from all over the world. They have enriched my life. I hope the impact I have had on their lives continues to help - always. It was a beginning!
- Viola A. Bird Top