Volunteers of the Month – September 2023
Ananya Krishnapura
Since 2021, Ananya has been a consistent source of support to her student, Estefany. She is an excellent advocate for Estefany and always makes sure to voice any needs her student may have. Families in our program are sometimes hesitant to ask for additional support so to have a tutor willing to advocate for them is just so special to see.
– Sarah Fraza, Associate Volunteer Engagement Coordinator
I have always loved teaching and working with children. When the pandemic hit and remote learning began, I was looking for an opportunity to continue working with students, particularly those who would be most vulnerable to learning loss during this time. School on Wheels’ mission, as well as their holistic approach to ensuring that each student feels completely supported in their academic journey, was a perfect fit!
The sense of pride and joy you feel when your student is finally able to solve problems that they have been struggling with for weeks is indescribable. I am deeply grateful to have had the opportunity to witness my student Estefany’s growth over the past few years, both in terms of her academic achievement as well as with regard to her growing personality and self-confidence. Since she first learned multiplication, we have practiced problems together at a majority of our sessions. When we first began practicing multiplication, I remember trying to play a speed-based game together, and it proved to be a little challenging at the time. Now, I look back at that moment and I can scarcely believe that, in what seems like the blink of an eye, Estefany’s skills have gotten to the point where she has to tell me to set an easier bar for myself when we’re racing :).
As a School on Wheels tutor, you have the unique opportunity to be a consistent presence for students who are struggling with the uncertainty surrounding so many other aspects of their life. Every week, you have the ability to make a direct impact, not just on their academic achievements but more importantly on their sense of self-confidence, pride, and personal drive. Being a School on Wheels volunteer has been one of the most fulfilling and eye-opening experiences I have had, and I encourage anyone who has the time and interest in serving their community to apply to join this incredible team.
Jose Valdovinos
Jose is truly a dedicated and passionate tutor. He demonstrates patience while working with Jenko and creates a fun and safe space for him. Jose and Jenko have been working together since March and have had consistent sessions since then.
– Yesenia Ontiveros, Volunteer Engagement Coordinator
I generally think that if one has the means to help others in need, then help should be given. My employer made it easy for me to volunteer, and when I found out about School on Wheels, it felt like the right situation for me.
My student likes to draw, and his drawings are quite funny. A great experience for both of us recently was when learning the results of his second assessment. His results were fantastic!
Volunteering with School on Wheels is actually fairly easy. Not much time is required, and School on Wheels provides everything you need to do work that makes a big difference in a child’s life.