YMCA Educational Services (YES!)

The YMCA Educational Services (YES!) program was established in 1977 to teach adults to read.  It is a model for similar programs across the nation and is still the only adult education provider in the greater New Orleans area that focuses exclusively on serving those who read below the 9th grade level.  Since its inception, YES! has served more than 15,000 adults, helping them obtain the literacy skills necessary to move on to GED or job training programs.

Service learning students will tutor adult literacy students at the YMCA Learning Centers.  YMCA students are at basic and pre-GED levels.   We are looking for tutors who are patient and eager to explain things.  We are looking for tutors who are interested in math especially, so preference will be given to those who feel confident explaining math concepts of various levels.  Preference will also be given to who can come in the morning or afternoon at least once a week and can commit to a regular schedule.  Please click here for a more detailed description of the service learning positions.

Service learners may be expected to: 

• Co-facilitate reading groups, varying in level from beginning reader to pre-GED
• Tutor during language and math time
• With guidance from teachers, create lesson plans
• Correct homework
• Make photocopies of curriculum if needed
• Improve classroom space (organize classroom, create visual learning tools, etc).

By working with YES!, Loyola students will develop leadership skills, gain tutoring and classroom experience, and gain experience working with diverse populations.  Students will also have the opportunity to learn about the illiteracy crisis and the major educational inequities that are so pervasive throughout the United States and especially in New Orleans.

Location

New Orleans Public Library
219 Loyola Ave.

Preservice requirements

Students interested in serving at YES! should attend the on-campus session on Thursday, January 24 from 12:00pm-1:30pm in Seminar Room 1, Monroe Library.  Please bring a government-issued photo ID, pen/pencil and paper.

Contact

Natalie Yahr, Administrative Assistant
yes@ymcaneworleans.org, 504.596.3842

Transportation

Days & times

There are three shifts available at YMCA Educational Services: