Get Involved

Our program provides individualized support to enhance learning and aid in the development of self-advocacy skills for students in the Basic and Transitional Studies Division at Seattle Central College.

Students in our division are working towards attaining higher education and employment by taking classes in English as a Second Language (ESL), Adult Basic Education (ABE), and GED preparation. We work with students to develop basic English, reading, writing, and math skills so that they can reach their goals.

Our Tutoring Program is currently operating remotely and in person. Online tutoring sessions are conducted through online platforms such as Zoom, Google Meet, Canvas, etc.

We are currently closing the volunteer form for the Fall Quarter due to a high flow of volunteers. If you still want to volunteer with us in the winter, please email us at btstutoring.central@seattlecolleges.edu. We will reopen the form in October.

Volunteer Tutor Application [paused]

Volunteer Opportunities

Tutor

Tutors provide one-on-one assistance to a student who is learning English or preparing for the GED or college placement testing. Tutors help students understand basic reading, writing, grammatical, or math concepts and provide opportunities to practice the skills they are learning in class. Tutors work with students to develop activities that are relevant to the students’ needs and goals. Tutors generally meet with a student twice a week.

Talk Time Facilitator

Talk Time is meant to create informal spaces for ESL students to practice conversational skills outside their classes and build a sense of belonging at Seattle Central. Talk time with volunteers currently occurs Fridays from 1 pm to 3 pm.

Computer Skill Tutor

We also offer computer support on a drop-in basis. This is designed for students to drop by for a quick lesson on a specific computer skill that they need for class, i.e., how to share their screen on Zoom, how to upload a file in CANVAS, etc. These drop-in sessions will be conducted on Zoom.

Classroom Assistant

Classroom Assistants work with classroom teachers in ESL and ABE classes. Classes may focus on basic reading/writing, speaking/listening, computer skills, math, or communications. Classroom assistants provide extra help to students during class time. We place volunteers in classes based on the needs of the division as well as the interests and needs of the volunteer. We prefer candidates with previous teaching or tutoring experience but can be flexible depending on your skills and interests. Ultimately, classroom assistants work out their schedule and role with the teacher that they are partnered with.