Tutor Reports

When first asked the question of “Why do you tutor?” I immediately thought “Oh, I’ve asked myself the same question on various occasions.”

On Monday and Tuesdays I voluntarily tutor students in pre-GED reading, writing, and mathematics. In addition to the eight students who I help with their GED-sharpening skills, I also tutor a high school senior. Three of my students have specific learning challenges such as autism and dyslexia which I derive the greatest joy from teaching and working with. When working with any student that I know will be a success the “Aha!” moment has been and is a hallmark sign of their understanding and comprehension.

The “Aha!” moment occurs when a student of mine finally grasps a challenging concept and we both know that they have laid to rest any uncertainty that they will master the subject material. When giving a lesson on how to multiply fractions, knowing that only weeks earlier they were timid about the idea of fractions in general, to witness their eyes light up when they learn that all that they must do is multiply numerator by numerator and denominator by denominator- they’re essentially jumping for joy.

I tutor because it brings me so very much happiness to observe someone who thought they were educationally unfit learn all mathematical, reading, and writing skills they need to have in order to pass their GED. It just feels good to know you are helping someone better their life.

Hello All! Welcome to our first e-newsletter.

Lots of new and exciting things are happening at the Literacy Council. The obvious, I’m new! On Sept. 2 I had the honor of becoming the new executive director here at the Council.  It’s been a pleasure getting to know all of the amazing volunteers, tutors and students that make up the organization. I am truly inspired and excited about our future.

A little bit about me. I was born and raised in Ocala and I’m a proud graduate of the University of Florida. You will hear me say Gandhi’s quote “Be the change you wish to see in the world” over and over again and that is how I live my life. I have worked at OneBlood, United Way of Marion County and as Campaign Director for now Superintendent of Schools, George Tomyn.   I serve on the board for Fine Arts for Ocala, Leadership Marion/Ocala Youth, 2035 Leadership Committee with the City of Ocala and I’m a member of Junior League of Ocala and Young Professionals Ocala.

I look forward to sharing all of the upcoming activities of the Council with you and growing our organization.

19% of Marion County citizens cannot read above a 5th grade level. We can change that. In fact, to grow our community in the way we all want to, we MUST change that!!! Together, we can do that!