Community Service Center

DC Reads: Becoming a Tutor

For more information please email dcreads@american.edu or call (202) 885-7378.

There are basically five steps to becoming a tutor. As you work through this process, use the links below to navigate.

1. Eligibility

We use the following factors in considering your eligibility to participate in DC Reads:

•  
• Can you prove that you've tested NEGATIVE for TB (tuberculosis) within the past twelve months?
   
  I did take a test recently, how do I prove it? I guess I need a test, how do I get one? Tutoring is a semester long commitment at minimum.
  
• Do you have time in your schedule to commit to tutoring?
   
  What do DC Reads schedules look like? None of the time slots listed work for me, can I still tutor?
  
• Do you want to tutor as a volunteer or as a paid Federal Work-Study job?
   
  How do I know if I'm eligible for Federal Work-Study? What else do I need to know about FWS?
  
• Have you ever been the subject of any complaints or arrest for any criminal conduct, including but not limited to crimes against children?

If you must answer yes, DC Reads may not be appropriate for you at this time. Speak with staff in the Community Service Center.

2. Application

Complete the On-Line Application
 

3. Interview & Site Placement

After completing the application call us at (202) 885-7378 to schedule an interview with a DC Reads Staff Member. At the end of the interview we will place you at a site according to your preferences. Click here for information on the different tutoring sites.

4. Training

DC Reads tutor training requires two steps:

1. Basic Tutor Training (6 hrs)

In this all day training session, you will be trained in the following areas:

• Your role and responsibilities as a DC Reads tutor
• Considerations when working with children
• Basic tutoring skills, with practice exercises
• Diversity in the Washington DC community
• Cultural Sensitivity
• Youth Development
• Curriculum Development
• Work Study Training

2. On-site Tutor Training (varies)

Each site will provide a basic orientation session that covers site-specific instructions, curriculum details, discipline procedures, safety concerns and other issues.

** OPTIONAL TRAINING **

AUTO Certification (3hrs, approx)
Tutors who wish to become drivers must renew certification annually.
* Pre-registration is required.

5. Tutoring

Start tutoring! We'll check in with you periodically to ensure that you're placement is working well for you. We've got some resources to help you tutor more effectively. We'll want you to think about the impact you're making, and what your experience means to you. We'll also be asking for your feedback and ideas to improve the DC Reads program.
 
If you have any other questions feel free to stop by the Community Service Center or contact dcreads@american.edu or call 202-885-READ.