ALWAYS A HELPING HAND

By JADE CURTIS

Struggling in class, not finishing homework, inability to concentrate. If these school concerns sound familiar, don't be alarmed. It is natural for all students to struggle at some point in school. After all, the goal is to learn. School work can seem overwhelming and stressful when students are unable to comprehend the material.  

JADE CURTIS FOR THE WIZARD WEEKLY

About five years ago, following the dismissal of The Compact for Learning Program, high school librarian, Mrs. Richardson, intended to start a Peer Tutoring program in the high school as a suggestion to keep study hall kids productive, and to provide them with a better use of their time. Since then, the program has expanded past study halls. WHS should be aware that there are sessions available before and after the school day. 

Mrs. Richardson is extremely proud of the progress this program has made. She expressed, “The Peer Tutoring Program is great. Students that find themselves struggling academically set up to meet with a peer tutor for tutoring sessions to concentrate one on one with the subject they are struggling in.”  She went on to say, “The sessions are constructed around the student and tutors availability. I am always looking for math and science tutors. To become a tutor, students can sign up any time on the high school library web page. Check there for more information.” 

Students who participate in the program as tutors are awarded with community service hours. Junior, Anna Freitas, has been involved with this program as a peer tutor for about two years now. She verbalized, “Overall, with this program, I've accumulated about 10 hours of community service. This year I plan to increase my hours by tutoring more during my study hall. I enjoy this program because it makes me feel good knowing I get to help my peers establish a better understanding of the material when they find themselves struggling. Everybody has their weaknesses.”

Students should not stray away from admitting that they are struggling in school  as it is natural, and nobody is perfect. There is an established sense of confidentiality between the student and the tutor. Students are encouraged to join the program, and will be welcomed with open arms. 

Sophomore Samantha Soehnlein just joined the program as a tutor this year. She noted, “What encouraged me to join the program was the fact that I'm good at math. I tutor students struggling in MMT and Algebra 1. I enjoy tutoring because it allows me to constitute a connection with my students while still helping them engage with the math, and learn more as an individual. There's a sense of satisfaction." Beyond academic improvement, students can really connect with their peer tutor.  Therefore, students are formulating a new friendship as they simultaneously receive the help they need. This program is extremely beneficial for all those involved. 

This program has vastly gained attention since its beginning, and will only continue to expand.  Thank you to all the peer tutors who volunteer their time on  a weekly basis.  Your helping hand does not go unappreciated. You make learning fun!