Q: Do I keep the “Reading is an Adventure” student booklet from week to week?
A: This depends on the teacher. Many teachers will keep them and give them to you each week with the books for the student. However, if the teacher would prefer for you to keep it, that is fine. Be sure not to let the student keep it, because then you will run the risk of the student losing the guide. Of course, at the conclusion of your tutoring, please give the completed student booklet to the student, so that he/she can share it with his/her teacher and family.
Q: For how long will I be paired with this student or classroom?
A: We ask that volunteers commit to at least 12 weeks, and encourage volunteers to continue these relationships until the end of the school year. If your schedule changes in January with a new semester, we will try to work with you so that you can keep volunteering.
Q: Can I bring in my own books for one-on-one reading?
A: Since the schools are continually assessing each student’s reading level, they will know which leveled reader is most appropriate for your student for each session, and should provide one for each session. Using the provided books will help your student make progress more quickly toward improving his/her reading skills.
Q: Can I bring in Christmas or Easter books to read to a class?
A: We try to have all of the students feel comfortable with the books and be able to relate to them, and students in MNPS represent diverse cultures and ethnic backgrounds. Therefore it’s best to choose books that do not reflect particular religious doctrines or beliefs. If in doubt about whether a particular book would be appropriate, we recommend that you check with the teacher first.
Q: How do I pick a school to volunteer in?
A: You can choose to volunteer in any public elementary or middle school in Davidson County, and PENCIL can help you find the right fit. You may choose to volunteer in a high-needs school or if you tell us the area you live or work in, we will be able to find a school that is close and convenient for you.
Q: My work schedule changes all the time and I am worried that I will not be able to find a time that works each week. Can I still volunteer?
A: Volunteers do need to plan on going to the school on the same day and time each week since your scheduled day/time must also fit with a particular teacher or student’s schedule. If your schedule permits you to go once or twice per month at a regularly scheduled day/time, you may want to consider volunteering as a Classroom Reader, as One-on-One Readers go every week. However, if you do not think your schedule will permit a regular commitment, Reading Partners is not the best PENCIL volunteer program for you. Please check PENCIL’s website for other types of volunteer opportunities.
Q: What days/times of the week can I volunteer on?
A: Monday through Friday, 8:30-3:45.
Q: How long does it take to get placed?
A: The background check can take anywhere from a day to two weeks. We submit them to a third party as soon as we get the forms in. However, this can take a while if there is an influx of forms. As soon as we get the background check cleared, we contact the school with your availability. The schools should then contact you within a few weeks. We try to have this process go as quickly as possible to get you in the schools, but at certain times of the year when we and the schools are busy, placement can take longer. You will be notified when your placement with the school has been completed along with your school’s contact information.
If you have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Ann at ajohnson@pencilfd.org or at 242-3167 ext. 232
