Volunteer Information

Refugee Education Center and Church of the Servant are teaming up to provide academic support for COS’ new American refugee students this fall. With most area public schools moving instruction online, many of our kids and families face new challenges with educational access. That’s where you can help! 

Our goal: to provide a mentor to every child at COS whose parents would like some extra academic support this fall. There are 30 students, so that means we’re looking for 30 mentors! 

The Refugee Education Center has years of experience supporting refugee students and their families. The wonderful staff there will provide training, online tutoring resources, coordination with the student’s family, and ongoing support for tutors. 

How Does Tutoring Work?

You’ll use video-call software (like Zoom) to spend 1 hour per week with your student. The sessions usually take place somewhere between 2pm and 6pm, Monday through Thursday, but the volunteer coordinator will work with you and your student’s family to find a time that works for both of you. There are five different volunteer roles available, so you can choose the role that best fits your talents and interests:

  • Storytime Volunteer: this volunteer would call 1-3 students each week and read a story to them. This could be a book the volunteer already has at their house, one they find online or from a local library, or one they borrow from REC’s library. The volunteer will call the student using video calling, check-in with them briefly, read the book to the student in an engaging and interactive way, and ask comprehensive questions. 
  • Online Volunteer Tutor: This volunteer will work with a student with homework help and supporting online academic learning for any subjects where students are struggling. The volunteer will call the student once a week for one hour, using video calling technology. The tutor will receive resources from REC to aid with online tutoring. Tutors will also receive training in i-Ready online curriculum, which will be an additional resource and aid for students in ELA and Math.  
  • English Tutor: This volunteer will work with a student specifically on English Language development (reading, writing, speaking, and listening). The volunteer will call a student once a week for one hour, using video calling technology, and engage the student in a lesson adapt to their level. This tutor will also receive training in i-Ready online curriculum, which students will use in conjunction with their tutoring session.
  • Math Tutor: This volunteer will work with a student specifically on development of core math skills. The volunteer will call a student once a week for one hour, using video calling technology, and engage the student in a lesson adapt to their level. This tutor will also receive training in i-Ready online curriculum, which students will use in conjunction with their tutoring session.
  • Movement Mentor: This volunteer will work with a student to get them moving and active in their home! This volunteer will call the student once a week for 30 minutes, using video calling technology. There is also the option of outdoor porch sessions at the family’s home, while practicing social distancing. The volunteer will pick a 30-minute exercise that produces movement and increased heartrate (stretching, dance, Pilates, songs with motions, or sport).

What Experience Do I Need?

You don’t have to be an experienced teacher to be a great mentor. If you’ve ever read a child a story or helped a child with homework, you’re in good shape! All you need to be a mentor is an hour a week, video-call technology (like Zoom), and the desire to support a student during this challenging time.

What Kind of Commitment Is Required?

Refugee Education Center asks that you commit to meeting with your student weekly through the first semester (September-January)–but they would love it if you were able to continue through the entire school year! All REC tutoring will be online for the first semester, with the second semester still to be determined. 

Where Do I Sign Up? 

Click here to fill out this short form with your name, email, phone number, and a few quick questions about your preferred role and age group. That’s it! Once you’re signed up, we’ll pass your information to the REC volunteer coordinator. He’ll be in touch soon with training info, a background check form, and scheduling. 

What If I Have More Questions? 

Contact Kate Snow. She’ll be glad to answer any questions you have. 

Click here to volunteer. 

Thanks for your interest in supporting our kids!