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PALO ALTO COLLEGE AWARDED COLLEGE READING AND LEARNING ASSOCIATION (CRLA) CERTIFICATION TO TRAIN TUTORS

The College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA) has certified the tutor training program at Palo Alto College. The College is the only college in the ACCD to have achieved tutor certification campus-wide. Tutors are part-time staff members who support the mission of the college by helping students achieve academic success. The College’s certified training program ensures that tutors hone their skills in assisting students to become self-directed learners.

“Certification ensures our tutors are well-trained,” said Dr. Mari Hopper, Director of Title V. “It gives a common base from which we can utilize our tutors and feel confident that they have the skills necessary to serve our students to the best of our ability.”

Mary Jo Garcia, Instructional Specialist in English, first recognized the importance of certifying tutors at PAC. She shared information on the International Tutor Certification Program (ITCP), with Hopper, who saw a formal training program as a natural extension of Title V activities.

In conjunction with the Instructional Specialists from each of PAC’s three learning centers, Hopper coordinated the effort to earn CRLA certification. Documentation was required on the selection criteria for hiring tutors, on the mode and content of training, and on the tutor evaluation process.

The training program has already certified eighteen tutors employed across the campus—in the English, Math, and Science Learning centers, as well as CIS, PassKey, Disability Support Services Office, and the MegaLab.

“The tutor training helps remind us why we’re here,” said Bill Hartman, Science Learning Center tutor. “We’re here to help the students.”

In helping others, tutors are also helping themselves.

“Tutoring helps to keep your skills sharp,” said Hartman, a UTHSCSA nursing student, who shares his expertise in Anatomy & Physiology with students.

To see how tutors are assisting students at Palo Alto College through Title V-funded activities, go to http://www.accd.edu/pac/science/hopper/TitleV.htm

For information on Palo Alto’s certified tutor training, contact Tracy Pomerinke at
210-921-5282.

For further information on the application process for tutor certification see: http://www.crla.net/Certification.htm