What we do

LVT works with adults in two main areas: Basic Literacy and English Language Acquisition for Adults (ELAA) (formerly English for Speakers of Other Languages /ESOL). We work with students to set and achieve goals, so they are able to improve their lives by getting a job or a better job, help their children in school, and participate in their community.

Basic Literacy students are usually – but not always – native English speakers who, for a variety of reasons, read at or below the sixth-grade level. They need help in learning to read and write and perhaps do simple arithmetic. All tutoring with Basic Literacy students is done one-on-one. To make progress, the tutor should meet with the student at least two times a week.

ELAA students are usually from other countries and want to learn to read, write and/or speak English. You, as a tutor, are not required or expected to speak a second language. The educational level of ELAA students varies from illiterate in their own language to college graduates. ELAA students are taught in groups at centers (usually in elementary schools or libraries, with two or more tutors for each class) or one-on-one. Students who are relatively advanced but want to improve their speaking ability participate in small conversation groups.

Centers meet 1 1/2 to two hours twice a week, while conversation groups meet about 1 1/2 hours once a week. One-on-one meetings should be at least two hours a week for the student to progress.

All our tutors are volunteers. If you would like to tutor, you begin the process by attending an orientation, where you’ll find out about LVT and our requirements, what we expect of you and what you can expect of us. You’ll find a schedule of upcoming orientations here.