Shadow Ridge’s AFJROTC tutoring program was created to support students who needed extra help understanding their homework and class material. The goal is to give students more confidence in their classes. They want students to know that getting some extra help doesn’t have to feel intimidating. The tutoring program started to give students another place where they can ask questions, get guidance, and understand concepts that don’t really click during class. The program offers students a comfortable place to learn and grow.
Advisor Jackie Zimmerman stated, “Cadet led tutoring is to assist students with their homework and help them with classes they might not understand otherwise. Having someone your age explain it can give you that “a-ha” moment you may need to understand the material and excel.”
Zimmerman hopes the program makes a noticeable difference on the Shadow Ridge campus. Tutoring sessions take place on Mondays after school, in room 406. Students just need to stop by room 408 before tutoring to get a pass. It is designed to be easy and welcoming so anyone who wants help can walk in.
“I hope that students who are struggling use tutoring to help them understand what they don’t know and pass their tests. That will help them pass their classes. And then they are proud of themselves.” Zimmerman states, “Have you ever had a hard time learning something and once you finally got it, you felt amazing!?! We want to help students get that feeling.”
Students who participate in tutoring also gain skills that go further than just the classroom. Tutors have the opportunity to practice problem solving and communication, while working with different learning styles. Tutors help to break down difficult ideas into smaller, more understandable parts. This benefits the tutor and the student that they are helping.
Zimmerman explains, “The tutors learn patience, problem solving, communication. They learn how to break down complex problems into smaller ones and learn how to use different communication styles.”
The AFJROTC tutoring program is more than just some extra help after school, it is to help students see that they are capable of success in school. Whether a student is struggling through a tough unit or trying to raise a grade, the tutors are there to help them step by step. By creating a supportive space, the program reminds students that growth takes time, and sometimes it takes some help to get there. No matter where someone starts, the tutors are there to help their peers move forward and keep learning.
