The St. Paul school district still needs 63 tutors to help with reading, math and early learning this academic year, according to an organization that provides tutors to the schools.
Throughout the entire Twin Cities metro, more than 500 tutors are needed, according to AmeriCorps programs Reading Corps, Math Corps and Early Learning Corps.
The organization said that fewer than a third of Minnesota students are at grade level for literacy and math. The tutors are needed in the seven-county metro area schools and preschools beginning in October.
“Those numbers seem really daunting, but the good news is we have a solution that works,” says Christine Fankhanel, director of Minnesota programs with Reading Corps, Math Corps and Early Learning Corps. “When students work with a tutor, incredible things happen. They often make more than a year’s progress during the school year!”
Tutors can choose to work 18, 25 or 35 hours a week. A few locations need tutors to work only 10 hours a week. Tutors will use scripted activities to meet with individual students and small groups to practice essential skills. No teaching experience is needed. All tutors will receive training and ongoing coaching.
Tutors receive a stipend every two weeks equal to about $15 an hour plus $4,800 to pay for college tuition or student loans. People 55 or older can use the education award for their own child, grandchildren, stepchildren or foster children. In addition, many tutors also qualify for other benefits such as free health insurance and child care assistance.
For more information or to apply, visit readingandmath.org.