Finding Tutoring Partners

With 25 of my own students and having given nearly a dozen more to my partner Shellie, it is getting to be time to expand Bloomington-Normal Math Tutoring's network to additional tutors. This morning I'm meeting with two ISU actuarial students who have expressed interest. What will our customers be expecting?

THE JOB

The position is a tutor in network (as opposed to employment, independent contractor, or any legal partnership) with Bloomington-Normal Math Tutoring.

Most tutoring relationships are for one hour a week, unless the student is unusually far behind.

Students will bring questions with them. These may be in the form of class notes to be clarified, past tests/quizzes to be reviewed, exam preview packets to be studied, or (most commonly) homework.

The first session is free of charge; after that the typical rate is between $20 and $50 an hour. The tutor sets the rate, as well as any cancellation policy. No payment is made to Bloomington-Normal Math Tutoring; no legal obligation is express or implied.

EXPECTATIONS

Communication must be available by phone, text, and e-mail; must be timely and with acceptable grammar.

Tutoring relationships are vulnerable situations for most students. Ideal tutors are optimistic, show an interest in the personal well-being of others, handle adversity with patience and persistence, and are humble.

It is acceptable to attempt to tutor subjects of lesser familiarity, considering a possible adjustment in rates, and also acknowledging this up front with the student.

It is natural not to occasionally know the answer to a question; for this reason it is advantageous but not required to being a laptop in case some research is needed.

TRAINING AND EVALUATION

There will be an observation period prior to being paid. The tutor may either choose to observe me in action with a student on one or more occasions, or choose to provide observed tutoring in one or more sessions. In the meantime, questions about the tutoring process are welcome and encouraged.

In the case of any students referred by Bloomington-Normal Math Tutoring, the parent or student may be given a courtesy call after a few sessions for feedback.