Volunteer Frequently Asked Questions
First, you’ll take our training, which will certify you to become an adult literacy tutor. After the training, staff will match you with a student.
Five weeks. After an introductory session that will help you decide which type of training you prefer, there are 12 hours of instruction over four weeks.
We offer two types of Tutor Certification:
Basic Literacy Tutor Training prepares tutors to help adults improve their reading, writing, and spelling skills.
English Language Learner Training prepares tutors to help adults for whom English is another language. The tutor also helps them understand U.S. customs, culture, and systems.
Typically, we offer training in the spring and fall in Bangor, and on occasion in the winter in Ellsworth.
Contact us and we can discuss how this might happen.
This fluctuates. We recommend following your interests when making your choice.
Absolutely, though it may be challenging to take both classes simultaneously.
Usually, a tutor works with one student at a time.
Yes. It’s very likely that you’ll meet each student at different times.
We ask that you spend 1-2 hours a week with your student. The additional time it takes to plan lessons depends on the individual.
This is ideal. However, we understand that life events will occasionally prevent this from happening.
There is no set time when the pairing will end. Some matches end because the student’s goals are met. Other times, the tutor’s or student’s situation changes.
Public spaces are usually recommended for the safety and comfort of both parties. Sometimes there are reasons to consider meeting in a home.
Many things are considered, including geography, time availability, gender/age preferences, mutual interests, and a perceived likelihood that the pair can learn from each other.
Students’ goals are as varied as the individual. Some goals include getting a high school diploma or HiSET (formerly GED), obtaining a driver’s license, reading to their children, understanding mail, living more independently, reading the paper, keeping their job, receiving U.S. citizenship, communicating with others, increasing self-confidence, etc.
It varies. Students range from those whose literacy skills are very basic to those who are fine-tuning their abilities. Most fall in between.
Most definitely. Please look at our Other Ways to Volunteer section for more information.