SCHOOLWORK SUPPORT TUTORS

January 27 - May 3, 2021

During this virtual school year, Oakwood Arts has assembled a group of 10 volunteer tutors --composed of University of Richmond students, past OA interns, and staff--to support RPS students and families in the East End with individual learning goals during this virtual school year. Through our partnership with the MLK Boys and Girls Club and the facilitated learning centers at Fairfield Elementary, Franklin Military Academy, MLK Middle School, Armstrong High School and Elijah House Academy we are serving 10 students, ages 8-17. Our tutors offer academic support in Reading, English/Language Arts, Math, and Science, as well as technical support for the challenges that come with online learning.

Using educational best practices, OA staff implemented a comprehensive training program for each Schoolwork Support tutor, informed in part by research conducted by OA’s Instructor-in-Residence, who worked for six months tutoring a small group of RPS middle-school students. Our program ensures that each tutor is trained in using creative tools and resources to encourage students in hands-on learning, incorporating art and creative problem solving into their schoolwork and utilizing STEAM methodologies. 

Each OA Schoolwork Support tutor undergoes a background check and commits to at least six, weekly, hour-long sessions with individual students. An OA staff member guides each tutoring session and oversees weekly evaluations to track progress and ensure we are offering students the best support possible.

“I’m so excited, I haven’t been able to tutor in so long because of Covid.” 

- Katherine Mazzer, University of Richmond tutor 

“I have been having a great time tutoring so far! Being able to work with my student has made me feel more connected to my community, and I feel lucky to experience that during COVID times.“

— Lara Zirkle, Oakwood Arts tutor and former OA Intern