Basic Requirements of Tutors

Since 2001, Schools of Hope has averaged over 1,000 volunteers each year. Volunteers need to be high school age or above, have no felony or child abuse and neglect convictions, and be willing to spend at least 30 minutes each week tutoring. Tutoring sessions are held during the school day when school is in session.

Volunteers are required to attend one 2 hour training at no cost. NOTE: A valid drivers license or other photo ID is required to complete the training. In the event that GRPS closes due to inclement weather on the day of training or a tutoring session, these activities are also cancelled.

Click here to register for training.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I volunteer at any school or more than one school?

Volunteers can select the school most convenient for them. Volunteers may volunteer in more than one school.

Can I tutor more than one student?

Yes, but all reading tutoring sessions are individual, so you must extend your time commitment. Some tutors spend several hours a week and work with multiple children.

I'm not a teacher. Can I do this?

We have volunteers from all walks of life and all educational levels. Schools of Hope schools provide lesson plans and materials for the volunteer. The Schools of Hope training session will provide the basic skills you need to be comfortable and effective as a tutor.

What if I have to miss a week or more?

We all have times where illness, vacations or job responsibilities will force us to miss a week. We ask that volunteers notify the school as soon as possible so the child can be informed and will not be surprised by your absence.

I travel for part of the year. Can I still do this?

Yes. Please discuss your schedule with the Schools of Hope coordinator as soon as possible. They will make other arrangements for the child in your extended absence.

Will I be alone with the child?

Schools of Hope coordinators will be available to volunteers at all times. Most schools have a room set aside for Schools of Hope tutors with study corrals to ensure privacy.

What is required outside of the weekly commitment?

We require no further involvement outside of the tutoring time. Most volunteers find that there is about one hour between the time they leave their home or business and their return.

Can I do things with the child outside of the program/school?

Schools of Hope is a school based program and does not clear volunteers to work with children outside of the structured Schools of Hope times. Any contact with the child outside of the school program is strictly the responsibility of the tutor and must be cleared with the child's parent.

How old do I have to be to do this?

We require students to be high school age. Some special arrangements can be made for mature middle school students.

Can I give gifts to my child?

This is not a program that requires or encourages gift giving, however, some tutors want to remember their child with a small gift for a birthday or during the holidays. Please check with the Schools of Hope Coordinator at your school.

Click here to register for training.