New Tutor FAQ

What is America/Northfield Reads and Counts?

Northfield Reads and Counts (NRC) is a local implementation of the national America Reads and Counts initiative that brings in community members to help children develop critical reading and mathematics skills. NRC pays Carleton students to share their expertise, energy and resources with Northfield Public School students who need extra support and assistance in the classroom. The program functions through the community-based work study program in Carleton’s Center for Community and Civic Engagement (CCCE).

How many schools are there in Northfield, and how far away are they?

We partner with 5 local schools - three elementary schools, one middle school, and one charter school. Some students also choose to work with freshmen at Northfield High School. All of the schools are within a few miles of campus (a 30 minute walk/5 minute drive). Transportation is also available through Carls-Go! Shuttle which is a 30 minute loop.

What grade levels/subjects will I be working with?

Most tutors work with students in grades kindergarten through 8th grade, but some can also work with 9th graders. However, the classes, teachers, and schools you work with are totally up to you. As the name of the program implies, you will focus in the areas of literacy and math.

What kind of schedule will I have? Does this job affect the classes I can take?

At the start of the term, once you have your classes sorted out, you will have to commit to a weekly tutoring schedule at one or more of the Northfield Public Schools. Northfield teachers will post a long list of shifts online showing when they need help. You will gain access to this database upon arriving to campus and meeting with your supervisor, Kendall Clements. You get to pick your hours from that list, meaning you can pick your own schedule - that way, students with classes in the mornings can choose afternoon shifts and students with their afternoons free can tutor in the mornings. You can work in classrooms with individuals or with small groups, in study halls, or in after-school programs providing one-on-one homework help. It’s completely up to you - you just have to inform your supervisor of your schedule and show up!

How do I get off-campus? Do I have to pay for transportation?

There are several ways to get to work. Most of the schools are actually within 1-2 miles of campus, so walking/biking are great options, especially during fall and spring. Carleton provides a shuttle that stops at the three elementary schools, the middle school and high school-- this is a free option. It is encouraged to become an authorized campus driver if you are eligible. See the requirements to use a campus vehicle here. Some students with personal cars are also encouraged to carpool. You are also paid for your travel time

But I’ve never tutored before!

That’s not a question, but don’t sweat it! All it takes is patience and a basic knowledge of reading and math skills (and considering you got into Carleton, I wouldn’t be too worried). Plus, you will receive paid trainings every term to go over the basics - including before you start to tutor. For Fall 2019--we will be hosting a training on tutor basics on literacy on Sept. 21st from 10am-2pm After a few days, you’ll fall into a routine and get to know the great kids. One of the best things about the job is building relationships with your teachers, so if you have any concerns you can (and should!) check in with them regularly. If you have any actually serious concerns or issues, please talk to talk to your supervisor Kendall or lead tutor Lauren.

Is there anything I need to prepare before I get to campus?

Yup! Be sure to watch for any emails from Kendall and from Student Employment here at Carleton. There are documents you need to turn in in order to be paid in addition to the Northfield Public Schools background check in order to get access to the database with available shifts. At the start of fall term you’ll pick your hours based on your class schedule. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact Kendall Clements (kclements@carleton.edu) or Rose Delle Fave (dellefaver@carleton.edu).