Many of our local schools have many needs and very few resources. We have been so fortunate to have One-Year Volunteers and AmeriCorps member Libby provide practical help with academic needs, along with emotional support. Here is a reflection that she recently shared with us.
I work in four different grades at an elementary school in Jackson County. In 3rd grade, the teacher has me run a center for two of her math classes. In these centers we work on the multiplication facts and do some 1-1 tutoring when needed to improve a skill they may be struggling with. I had one little student who was really struggling with multiple digit subtraction and how to borrow. For about a week, we worked on this 1-1 and by the end of that week she was a pro at it. All she needed was a little extra help and time, but in a class of 20+ students, it is hard for a teacher to find the time to work that much with a student 1-1. Sometimes, the help needed isn't academic. I have several students who come from struggling homes. At times, I need to listen to them talk about something that happened or offer encouragement when they're having a bad day. Again, as a volunteer I am able to take that little extra time to do that so that a teacher can focus on the academics and needs of the whole class. Building those relationships impact academics as well. A child who feels cared for and heard has an easier time focusing on what you're trying to teach them. The work we do as community educators is really appreciated by the teachers and staff we work with as well as the students. This was just the experience I was hoping for in a service year.
