Literacy Council volunteer workshop begins April 11 in Loves Park

Staff Report

The Literacy Council will offer a free New Tutor Workshop beginning April 11 at the North Suburban District Library, 6340 N. Second St., Loves Park, Ill.

The Loves Park workshop will be offered during the daytime. Other workshops are scheduled throughout the year at various times and locations. A schedule can be viewed at theliteracycouncil.org.

At each New Tutor Workshop, volunteers learn techniques for teaching reading and English as a Second Language to adults.

After attendance at the workshop, tutors will be matched with a learner for one-on-one instruction for two hours each week for a minimum of one year. Tutors can work with a learner anywhere in Rockford, Belvidere or Loves Park.

Individuals interested in volunteering may visit www.theliteracycouncil.org to choose a workshop and download a registration form. Or, call The Literacy Council at (815) 963-READ.

Stephanie Groves, literacy coordinator, said: “Adult students, both beginning and intermediate in terms of reading skills, come to The Literacy Council to improve their chances of furthering their education. Our tutors help students meet goals on the way to getting a GED or getting into college.”

The Literacy Council has a waiting list of adults who want to work with tutors on reading skills. Tutors instruct them in phonics, reading comprehension and writing.

To become a tutor, you must be older than 18, have a high school diploma, possess good communication skills, be flexible and patient, and have the willingness to meet with a student for two hours a week for a minimum of one year.

From the March 28-April 3, 2012, issue