Tuesday Tutoring

At Laingsburg United Methodist Church, we believe that engagement with the community is one of the ways in which we can be the church God wants us to be. One of the ways we engage the community is through our relationship and partnership with Laingsburg Community Schools, their teachers, administrators, students and families.

In 2018 we began offering a tutoring program for elementary-aged students who might need some extra help or encouragement, or who are simply looking for a safe and inviting place to learn a little more. Tuesday Tutoring is free and has been held on Tuesdays throughout the school year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the program take place, and why there?

Tutoring takes place at Laingsburg United Methodist Church, 210 N. Crum Street. We chose our building rather than a space in the school so as not to add to the work of the school's teaching, administrative or custodial staff. The church is close to Laingsburg Elementary School, so students can gather safely without walking far, and our Safe Sanctuary policy provides an additional layer of safety.

What is Safe Sanctuary?

Safe Sanctuary is the protection policy our church uses to ensure the safety of children, youth, vulnerable adults and volunteers. Every tutoring volunteer completes an application, an ICHAT background check (provided by the Michigan State Police) and training on how to properly supervise and work with children.

What will the program provide for students?

While most of our volunteers are not trained educators, we offer an encouraging environment where students can practice reading with a helper and work through other subjects. We know that the best way to learn something is to teach it, so we aim to create a mutual learning environment in which students are empowered to share what they know, reinforcing their knowledge as they do.

Does a parent need to drop off or pick up a child?

No. Our protection policy allows children to sign themselves in and out of a program as long as a permission slip is signed by a parent or legal guardian.

How can I refer or sign up a student?

Tuesday Tutoring is not only for students who may be struggling. It is available for all elementary students. Parents, teachers and school administrators may fill out a referral form in consultation with the student's parent or guardian. There is no need to sign up in advance; students simply bring the referral form and the permission slip the first time they come.

• Tuesday Tutoring Referral Form

The parent/guardian permission slip is available from the church office.

What does it cost?

There is absolutely no cost to the student, the parent or guardian, or Laingsburg Elementary School. We believe part of our responsibility is to contribute to the common good of the community we serve.

Volunteer With Us

If you enjoy working with children and would like to help as a reading buddy or homework helper, we would love to hear from you through our contact page. Tuesday Tutoring is part of our outreach to Laingsburg families.