Marinette and Oconto Counties Literacy Council offers training for volunteer tutors

NORTHEAST WIS. – The Marinette and Oconto Counties Literacy Council is seeking volunteers to tutor local adults through English Language Learner services and basic education programs.

Since most of the participants are learning English, “M&O Literacy Council matches volunteer tutors with ELL students in their communities… The volunteer-led nonprofit organization helps adult learners learn English, get a GED credential, study for a U.S. Citizenship or driver’s license test or gain other skills,” the council website explains.

Tutors help students build confidence and work toward goals that matter to them.

“We work on students’ goals versus what we think they need,” explained Janet Glime, the council’s president and volunteer administrator.

Beginning in 2012, Glime helped start the council after noticing a need for adult learning support while working as a nurse.

Tutors and students usually meet in a library. The council considers their locations and schedules when arranging matches, aiming to make it convenient for everyone involved. Tutoring sessions typically last about an hour to an hour and a half, and volunteers generally set aside about two hours a week.

“Many people come and say, ‘I’m not a teacher.’ That’s quite all right, and neither am I. But we learn as we go along,” Glime said.

Tutors don’t need classroom experience to get started. The council provides books and helps pairs work at a pace that suits the student. Glime said students may feel as though they are the only ones struggling, so tutors are encouraged to be patient and reassuring as they work through lessons together.

Tutors are taught not to tell students they are doing something wrong. Instead, they might suggest trying again or returning to a difficult part later.

“We’re here with you every step of the way. We will work with you through this,” Glime shared.

As students gain confidence, the relationship can become about more than the lesson. Glime said tutors and students often grow comfortable with one another, becoming friends and sharing laughs. She described the relationships as rewarding for all participants, with tutors finding satisfaction in seeing the student’s progress and students gaining confidence and feeling supported.

The organization serves people across Marinette and Oconto counties, partnering with libraries since students and tutors live throughout the area. The council currently needs tutors for learners in Coleman, Crivitz, Oconto and Oconto Falls.

Those interested in tutoring can attend a training class Wednesday, Oct. 21, from 10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. at Farnsworth Library, located at 715 Main St., Oconto. The council provides books for tutors and students, and no teaching experience is required.

For more information or to sign up for the training, call or text Glime at (920) 373-1035.

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