Frequently Asked Questions

Is Invest in Youth still looking for tutors?
Tutor positions have been filled for the 2023 - 2024 school but we are always looking for substitute tutors. If you can commit to one day a week we’d love to hear from you by completing our tutor application.

What protections are in place for Covid-19?
We encourage all tutors to stay updated on Covid-19 vaccinations. At this time masks are not required in the schools but some tutors as well as teachers and students continue to wear masks. If you are experiencing any Covid-like symptoms please stay home and email our staff liaison through the contact link below to arrange for a substitute tutor.

We continue to work closely with the school district as well as Public Health - Seattle and King County to adjust protocols as necessary. 

When does tutoring start?
Please visit the schools link for start and end days as well as days where there is no tutoring. 

How is Invest in Youth different from other tutoring programs?
Invest in Youth offers the opportunity to work directly with the same student, week after week, throughout the school year. Our program is offered at no cost to the school or families. 

Where do Invest in Youth tutors come from?
Our volunteer tutors come from many different backgrounds, interests and careers. We encourage involvement by people from all corners of the community who can bring enthusiasm, energy and inspiration to the tutoring experience.

What is the time commitment involved?
At a minimum, we ask that you commit to one student, one hour a week, for the duration of the school year. Please keep in mind that there are holidays and breaks throughout the year when we will not have tutoring.

I know I can't commit every week - can I still volunteer?
We are always in need of substitutes to cover planned or unplanned absences such as travel or illness by our regular tutors. Please fill out an application and indicate you'd like to be a substitute.

How long does the program last?
Tutoring begins in mid October and lasts through May.

Are there mid-year opportunities?
Yes — please consider becoming a substitute tutor as we’re always looking for tutors to help with tutor absences. In addition, we sometimes add students mid-year to our program.

Can I tutor at more than one school than one day a week?
Yes — each school has its own personality reflecting the diversity of local neighborhoods and we welcome tutors to experience the richness of more than one location.

I'm a high school or college student. Can I still tutor?
Some of our best tutors are students. However, we realize student schedules are busy and can sometimes become unpredictable. Please seriously consider the year ahead and be sure you can make the commitment. Please also ensure you will have reliable transportation to and from the school each week.

What do I do if I will be absent from tutoring one day?
As soon as you know you won’t be able to tutor please let us know through the contact link below and we’ll try to find a substitute tutor. In addition, please let your student know at least one week prior to an absence — for many students, tutoring is a highlight of their week and last-minute cancellations can be a big disappointment.

What subjects will I be tutoring?
Students in our program are 3rd, 4th or 5th graders and typically need most help with homework, including reading comprehension and math fundamentals. Math is generally limited to basics such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and fractions. You may find yourself learning new approaches to solving math problems but support from on-site teachers is always available if you encounter any difficulties.

You may also spend time reading with your student and helping them with writing projects such as composing short stories.

Oftentimes students and tutors spend the last 10 to 15 minutes on fun educational games such as Connect Four, chess or checkers, and the Allowance Game.

What is the enrichment program?
The enrichment program provides interactive STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) lessons and activities led by partner organizations. Past partners have included Green Plate Special, Museum of Flight, the Pacific Science Center and other community partners.

Enrichment is conducted before tutoring or in some schools, on separate days. Tutors are welcome to participate. Just contact us through the link below for days and times for your school.

Is there any training?
We offer an initial tutor orientation before the program begins.

Do I need any prior tutoring experience?
Not at all. We look for passionate tutors who can commit to showing up for their student each week and are ready to make a difference.

What support is available during tutoring sessions?
There will always be an Invest in Youth staff member on-site, in addition to a school on-site coordinator. Both are available to answer general questions, provide background information on homework and suggest activities to help keep your student engaged.

If you need guidance, don't hesitate to ask.

Why is a background check required? What would disqualify me from becoming a tutor?
Any person volunteering/working in Seattle Public Schools must clear a background check. This is to ensure the safety of the students we serve. A history of criminal charges may prevent you from becoming a tutor.

Do you have other questions? Ask us!

This page last updated February 28, 2024.