Student Rhonda (L) and tutor Jamie (R) are a tutoring pair in our High School Equivalency Degree (HSED) program! They have been working together since Fall 2024. Learn more about their work together below!
RHONDA:
Why did you decide to work with a Literacy Network tutor?
I needed some extra help since I haven’t been in school since 1986, and I was going back to get my HSED.
Describe your experience with Literacy Network.
Educational, uplifting, beneficial, much needed.
What do you like about working with Literacy Network tutors?
I feel a part of my growth and learning process. I feel like I’m developing another healthy female relationship, which has been hard for me in the past. Also, Jamie helps me see the skills I have that I don’t think I have. She makes me work for it.
How has tutoring helped you work toward your goals?
It has helped me keep a healthy routine and be accountable (having to show up every Saturday morning at the same time/place). It’s helped me think about my long-term quality of life outside just having the basics. I feel like I can be honest with Jamie, which helps me to think about the bigger picture of my life. She doesn’t give advice, but she helps me think of things from different perspectives. She’s a safe outlet when I get overwhelmed with the assignments.
What is a favorite memory from tutoring?
It’s all been good! I enjoy Saturdays with Jamie. I like working on writing assignments together, learning how to format and phrase my thoughts. I’ve learned to put some of my recovery learnings to use in my school work – feeling frustrated and redirecting it back into my work.
What’s next? What plans do you have for the future?
Once I get my diploma, I’m going to take a course in case management at Madison College or maybe a CNA course. I want to be a clinical support technician in a recovery facility.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I have a huge attitude of gratitude for the Literacy Network and for all of the different programs and for how accommodating they are. And I’m grateful for my tutor!
JAMIE:
How did you get connected to Literacy Network, and how long have you been a tutor with us?
I volunteered with the Literacy Council in Kenosha before moving to Madison, so I always wanted to get connected to tutoring here in Madison. I’ve been a tutor since Fall 2024.
Why did you decide to become a tutor with Literacy Network?
I’m a former middle and high school teacher, but working 1-on-1 with a student has always been my favorite way to teach. I find it very rewarding to see all of the little wins that contribute to someone reaching their larger goals.
What do you like about tutoring with Literacy Network and the students with whom you work?
As a busy professional, I really appreciate how organized the Literacy Network’s volunteer programs are. The training, guidance, and follow-up are all excellent, which makes it easy to plug in.
Rhonda is my first student with the Literacy Network. She is so determined and resilient! After not being in school for almost 40 years, she is learning so much all at once – how to use a computer and navigate the internet and word processing programs plus her course materials. She takes it all in stride, and it’s very inspiring.
How has tutoring with Literacy Network impacted your life?
There’s so much in the world that feels out of my control. Knowing I can do something tangible each week to make one person’s life just a little bit better is really empowering.
Why is adult literacy important for our community?
I’m a former English and Social Studies teacher. Having an informed citizenry is critical to our collective well-being, and, personally, books and literature are one of the things that make life worth living. Everyone should have access to that!
What are you most proud of from your work with Literacy Network?
I’m proud of the trust Rhonda has in me.
Share a favorite memory from tutoring
Rhonda and I laugh a lot. She says I’m sassy, but I think she’s the sassy one!