What do Tutor/Mentors do? 

Most tutors In our program are classroom assistants.  The teacher may want you to work with one learner, with a small group or as a floating helper responding to individual  needs. Usually the teacher designs the lesson, but some tutors have taught part of a class.

Tutors are placed in one of two kinds of classes - ESOL, where  students are working  on understanding, speaking, reading and writing English, or Adult Basic Education where students study reading, writing and math in preparation for taking the GED exam.

Where would I tutor?

Tutoring takes place at a variety of sites around Holyoke. Find our sites on this map.

When would I tutor?

Tutoring sessions last 2 - 3 hours in length and most are scheduled at a time convenient for you. Classes are held mornings and afternoons Mon - Fri and Mon - Thurs and evenings

Who would I tutor?

Our learners are 16 years and older.Some are from Holyoke and others from Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe. Some have had little education while others have advanced degrees.They are united by the desire to improve their lives through education.

Will I have to do Math?!   (or another subject I don't like?)

Tutoring matches are designed to be convenient and comfortable for the tutor. If the idea of doing math (or any other subject) is too challenging, you don't have to do it. But tutors have surprised themselves by having a good time discussing subjects they don't like!

Will you train me?

We provide a 12 -15 hour training followed by classroom observation. The training is interactive, participatory and covers Adult Learners, tutoring relationships & boundaries, Learning Styles & Learning Disabilities, Cross Cultural issues and the content areas of reading, writing, math & ESOL. Tutors are invited to attend ongoing meetings to develop their skills and have a forum for discussing tutoring scenarios.

How many hours do I have to tutor? How long of a commitment is this?

Tutors volunteer weekly.  Tutoring sessions last for a whole class, generally 2 - 3 hours, but shorter sessions are possible. We ask that you make a six-month commitment.

I don't think I can tutor because I don't speak Spanish (or another language).

You do not need to speak another language to be an effective tutor. Most ABE students are studying in English, and ESOL classes are taught in English.

I am fluent in Spanish - how can I help?

We have a few Spanish language ABE classes. We need tutors with good Spanish writing and/or math  skills. Please contact us!

What is a CORI/ Do I Need a CORI?

The CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information), required of all tutors, is a record of your Massachusetts criminal history. This includes any time you were arraigned in court on a criminal charge, regardless of the final outcome. If you have been arraigned it does not prevent you from tutoring depending on the nature of the event.

Where can I learn more information/ask other questions?

Please contact us! The program coordinator would be happy to speak with you and/or arrange for you to sit in on classes and speak with other tutors.

Contact our office at (413) 552-2932 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

How do I apply?