FAQs

WWU Science Tutoring Program

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

GENERAL

What is your program about?
     Our program matches Western Students with youth in the community to assist with science. 10 years ago a program called LINK was established with this purpose, later HASTA and NAMP followed. This past fall marked a time of change for the three groups. In this time of transition WWU Science Tutoring was created to work with all students in the Bellingham Schools and at Lummi Nation School. Join us today to help make a difference in your community!

Science is not my major, or one of my favorite subjects, can I still tutor?
     YES YES YES!!   We work in schools K-12 so have a place for anyone. There us a huge need for volunteers in the community, this has only increased as HASTA, NAMP and LINK are not placing tutors at this time.

Do I get paid for tutoring?
     Our program consists of both paid and volunteer tutors. We still have volunteer positions available. They are a great way to get first hand experience with students, good to have on your résumé and most importantly is a wonderful way that you can give back to your community.

TUTORING

What type of experience do I need?
     Though previous experience can be helpful, no previous work with children is expected or required. All you need is a willingness to learn and a desire to help students.

I don't have a car can I still tutor?
     YES!! The majority of our placements are within walking/biking distance and are on bus lines. We also have opportunities for carpools.

As a tutor what would I need to commit?
     We ask for a two to five hour a week commitment, but do not require our volunteers to tutor during dead week, finals and breaks.

What type of training to I get?
     Volunteer tutors are required to attend the first fall training, one training of your choice during winter quarter and then the end of the year reflection meeting. Volunteers are invited to attend any additional trainings if they would like. Paid tutors are required to attend ALL trainings., which take place from 5:30-7:30pm on the following days.
Fall Quarter: Monday, October 2nd : Introduction Training and Monday, November 13th.
Winter Quarter: Monday, January 22nd, Monday, February 12th, Monday, March 5th
Spring Quarter: Monday, April 9th, Monday, May 7th, Tuesday, May 29th : End of the year reflection meeting

Note: If you are a volunteer and have started after the beginning of the year, you are excused from those trainings that happened before you joined our program

I am sick and can't make it to tutor, what do I need to do?
      First, please let your school/student know as they will be counting on you to come. Refer to the schools page to find the main number for each of the schools we serve. We would also like you to send us a quick e-mail to let us know.

PAPERWORK

What paperwork is required to tutor?
     An initial application can be found here. After this we will contact you to have a short meeting with us. There are three BRIEF forms to fill out that are required by Washington State to work with children. Also we will give you a packet so you can get your fingerprints done.

Do I need to fill out all my paperwork again if I was previously a LINK/HASTA/NAMP tutor?
     Yes, all files have been destroyed.

I had my fingerprints done previously, do I need to do them again?
     If you have the receipt from when you had them done, you can bring in a copy for us. If you had them done at Woodring, you will not need to redo them. Otherwise remember they expire every two years.

What is the number to make a fingerprinting appointment?
     Call the Campus Police at Ext. 3555.