Volunteers of the Month – March 2026

Dylan Senske

What motivated you to start volunteering at School on Wheels?
Education has always been something I value deeply, and I believe that consistent encouragement and support can help students build confidence and see possibilities beyond their current circumstances. Volunteering felt like a tangible way to give back and help create a sense of stability through learning.

What advice would you give to a new volunteer at School on Wheels?
Be patient and focus on building trust first. . Showing up consistently, listening, and celebrating small successes can make a lasting difference.

What inspires you to overcome any challenges that arise with tutoring?
Knowing that consistency matters inspires me to push through challenges. Even on difficult days, simply being present provides encouragement and reliability for the student. Remembering the bigger purpose keeps everything in perspective.

What have you learned from your student?
I’ve learned resilience and adaptability. My student approaches challenges with determination, and that mindset is a powerful reminder that growth often comes from persistence rather than perfection.

Mary Ann Mailloux

What motivated you to start volunteering at School on Wheels?
I began tutoring with School on Wheels in 2016, after I retired from teaching. The program seemed a wonderful fit for me, as I missed teaching. This is great because you work one on one and that is the best way to teach and to learn.

What advice would you give to a new volunteer at School on Wheels?
I would tell new volunteers that they will love what they do, and that they will love their students. There are plenty of materials on the website to use. Once you get to know your student, you can tailor your program to them. I usually start with some knock-knock jokes, then a poem (Shel Silverstein is the best), and then get into the lesson and drill. I love playing 21 or Quizmo for math drill and reading good stories together for reading comprehension. Just fill up those 60 minutes!

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Eve Helms

What motivated you to start volunteering at School on Wheels?
After I retired, I knew I wanted to work with children. I began tutoring with the Police Alliance League, with at-risk youth, when they went to online tutoring only, I felt I would be more effective tutoring in-person. That search led me to School on Wheels. I was so impressed by what I learned about the organization, and even more inspired after speaking with the coordinator. The mission truly touched my heart.

What advice would you give to a new volunteer at School on Wheels?
I would encourage the tutor to over-prepare for each session and have multiple plans to use as back up, in case the original agenda is not working that day. Also, start with material that is not too challenging for the student to help create confidence and trust and then to continually ramp up the difficulty just short of frustration.

What inspires you to overcome any challenges that arise with tutoring?
When a session does not go well, I see it as a signal that I need to adjust my approach. I am highly motivated to reflect, adapt and try again. I am always looking for the key to unlock learning for each individual child.
There is nothing more inspiring than working through a roadblock together and seeing the breakthrough.

What have you learned from your student?
My students are truly my teachers – no two are alike. They have taught me flexibility, patience and the power of consistency. I am deeply grateful to have the opportunity to sit beside a child , give them my full attention, and watch them discover what they are capable of.