Tutor And Get A Hug
Mighty Writers' film crew near 15th & Christian.“I’m a tutor for Mighty Writers. I’ve been working with kids at Universal Institute Charter School since January, and I love what I do there.
“I help students with homework and as they progress through computer programs designed to hone their reading skills.
“My favorite part of tutoring is watching students learn to read more easily. They beam with pride when they pass a review test and receive a certificate. One girl gave me a spontaneous hug, she was so pleased.
“It’s important for kids to have adults besides their teachers and relatives who care about what they think. The conversations we have about their weekend, their favorite video game or what they’re doing in school are as important as the work we do on writing.
“Tutoring makes me feel more connected to the community. Universal is six blocks from my apartment, and I run into students I’ve tutored just walking around. It makes me happy to do something—even if it’s a relatively small thing—that helps make the neighborhood a better place.”
Kate Blakinger
University of Michigan
MFA 2007
