The Kishwaukee College Literacy Program has an urgent need for more volunteer tutors in order to respond to the growing number of adult learners in the district who are unable to join an adult education class due to the state’s budget impasse.
Reduced funding has led to reduced class offerings, and adult education programs throughout the state are looking to literacy programs to tutor additional individuals needing assistance with math, reading, or English language skills. Tricia Wagner, Director of Adult Education at Kishwaukee College, reported, “To date, we have a list of 106 individuals who have contacted us asking how to enroll in a class this spring. Unfortunately, we only have funds to continue instructing those who have already been our students during this fiscal year.”
Pat Olson, Literacy Coordinator at Kishwaukee College, is asking members of the community to take action to address this result of the prolonged inaction by our state’s leaders. “Volunteer programs are only limited by the number of people who are willing to participate,” she said.
Requirements to become a tutor include being a minimum 18 years of age, having a high school diploma or GED, and agreeing to a background check. Volunteers will receive training and instructional materials. Tutoring is usually done for an hour, once a week, at a public location in the participants’ community. The time and place is chosen according to the convenience of the tutor and the learner. All scheduling is flexible and can accommodate vacations, unexpected obligations, and breaks for busy periods at work or school.
Olson concluded, “There are many adults who need support to move forward. I hope more people will join our program to help them.”
For more information or to schedule tutor training, contact Pat Olson, Literacy Coordinator, at 815-825- 2086, ext. 3200.
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