Volunteer Tutor Basics

"Learning to read is probably the most difficult and revolutionary thing that happens to the human brain and if you don’t believe that, watch an illiterate adult try to do it." —John Steinbeck

Our Reading Program:

Our program offers one-to-one and small group tutoring for adults who wish to learn to read, have difficulties reading, spelling, and comprehension or wish to learn English as a second language. Adult learners are 16 years old and up. OIC tutors go through our free training program and should possess patience, sensitivity, be dependable, and exercise flexibility.

What qualifications are required to be a tutor?

OIC tutors have a heart to help others. You do not need to be a teacher - our training program will help you learn the skills to help with an adult learner. Although most of our tutors are 18 years old, we do make exceptions for younger (16 and up) individuals to be involved in our peer-to-peer tutoring opportunities as long as they are in school and of good academic standing. If you are under 18, you must have written parental permission to be a tutor.

Tutors must be able to read, write and speak English, be patient, sensitive, dependable, and flexible.  To be a Reading or Math Tutor, you must attend required training and is available in-person and online.  Contact the Volunteer Coordinator at 405.235.2651 for details.

Tutor Basics

Understand that you are building a relationship with an individual, not just teaching someone to read.

Complete a 9 hour training in-person or online to become a reading tutor.
Basic Tutor Training and continuing education opportunities are offered throughout the year. Training and materials are free. Trainings are held in 3 three hour sessions to complete to the 10 hours and should be completed before being matched with a student.

Commit to meet with your student at least one hour a week for one year.
Yes, we understand that there will be occasions that you or your student will be unable to meet. The longer and more consistent the tutor sessions, the more benefit to the student.

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