English Language Learner Volunteer Tutor

Fifteen percent of Nashville residents were born outside of the U.S.

The number of Tennessee residents who have limited English proficiency has grown 185% since 2000, compared to a 42% change nationwide.

Our volunteer tutors work to improve the lives of these individuals through English instruction, one learner at a time.

ELL volunteer tutors are matched with a student learning English. Tutors meet learners on Zoom or in person at a public location. All tutors will use an online English curriculum and learning management system provided by NALC to deliver high quality English lessons to learners.

Instruction materials are provided by NALC staff

NALC currently provides printed materials as well as Burlington English, an online educational program. Other instructional aids and reading materials may be used depending on learner needs. In addition, students choose their own supplementary reading and writing materials.

Learners are usually intermediate to advanced, though on occasion some are beginner level. You may express your preference when signing up.

As a tutor, you don’t need to speak any other languages thanks to our thorough curriculum.

Time Commitment & Preferences

You set a convenient, recurring time to meet and we will pair you with a learner whose schedule matches. ELL tutors meet with learners about one to three hours per week. We suggest meeting once or twice a week for one hour per session. Tutors are required to commit to meet with their learner for at least three months. Of course, this doesn’t mean that a week cannot be missed; we understand people go out of town and things come up.

We try to respect other preferences such as gender, age, and interest, where appropriate.

Meeting Locations

All NALC tutoring must occur in a public place or remotely over computer, phone, or tablet. If meeting virtually, we suggest Zoom, but you are welcome to use other platforms. Tutors and learners are both required to provide their own transportation to in-person tutoring sessions. If tutoring virtually, tutors must provide their own devices. A tutor and learner may choose to socialize outside of their tutoring sessions. These occasions are independent of our program.

Training for Tutors

All tutors must attend both trainings, regardless of background or experience. Staff provides ongoing support for volunteers and are available to address any issues or answer any questions you might have. If tutoring virtually, a certain level of knowledge and comfort with the technology you’ll be using is expected, but more detailed training can be provided.

Training focuses on curriculum and teaching best practices.

Tutor Requirements

• Access to a laptop or desktop computer with camera
• Access to a reliable internet connection
• A basic knowledge of computer skills (email, navigating websites, Google/Word documents)
• A basic knowledge of Zoom (scheduling meetings, screen sharing)
• Strong written and oral English language skills
• Patient, encouraging, and empathetic disposition
• Submit notes and hours worked so we can track your success
• A desire to meet someone from a different culture and help them acclimate to the greater Nashville community!