Washtenaw Literacy provides comprehensive tutor training for all of our volunteer tutors:

• ABCs of Washtenaw Literacy - The first step to becoming a tutor is to attend a one-hour information session, the ABCs of Washtenaw Literacy. Register online or call (734) 337-3338.
• Virtual Tutor Training - All virtual tutors complete this 4.5-hour training. The training prepares tutors to work remotely with Basic Literacy and English as a Second Language (ESL) learners. The training provides practice in platforms and adapting in-person strategies to a virtual environment. Click here for upcoming training dates.
• Core Tutor Training - All personal tutors complete this 15-hour training. The training is a hybrid of the nationally recognized LITSTART training model and Proliteracy training model. Trainings are held quarterly. Open Tutoring tutors are also welcome to attend. Click here for upcoming training dates.
• Ongoing Training - To learn more about Professional Development offered to our existing tutors, visit our Professional Development page.
• Additional Support - We also offer many resources and online support tools under Resources for Tutors.

Tutor Training FAQ

Can I register for Core Tutor Training online?

No, since we ask volunteers to attend an orientation first, training registration is not online.  You may register for an ABCs of Washtenaw Literacy information session.  If you have attended an ABCs already, please call (734) 337-3338 to register for training.

What if I cannot attend every session of Virtual Tutor Training?

We do offer make-ups, if needed.  Volunteers can miss a maximum of 1.5 hours of training.  However, if a volunteer will miss more than 1.5 hours, we recommend they wait until the next training as the make-ups cannot recreate the group work and learning process of the training.

What if I cannot attend every session of Core Tutor Training?

We do offer make-ups, if needed.  Volunteers can miss a maximum of 6 hours of training.  However, if a volunteer will miss more than 3 hours, we recommend they wait until the next training as the make-ups cannot recreate the group work and learning process of the training.

Why is the training required for personal and virtual tutoring but only recommended for open tutoring?

Both personal and virtual tutors work one-on-one or in a small assigned cluster with learners from the first day of tutoring.  Core Tutor Training and Virtual Tutor Training prepare a tutor to plan goal-oriented lessons using authentic materials.  A community tutor can apprentice with an experienced tutor.  During each community tutoring session, there are multiple tutors and an on-site to offer support and assistance.

Is there a cost for training?

There is a $35 cost for the Core Tutor Training.  This covers the cost of the text book and coursepack that every trainee receives.  However, there are scholarships available for any attendee.  There is no charge for our other trainings.