Teen Spirit

Back in the day, we started noticing that some teens came to tutoring but didn’t really want to be tutored. They wanted snacks and they wanted to chill with their friends. They also really liked chatting with volunteers. Instead of saying they were not welcome at SDRT, we created the Middle School/High School Hang Out! We then could say in a kind and positive tone, “You can come here for tutoring but if you want to come hang out, come to the Middle School/High School Hang Out next week!” And it worked. The teens showed up in full effect, ready to hang. And, they were much happier at tutoring!

We had our first MS/HS Hangout this year last week and the teen spirit (33 teens to be exact) was present —and the homework was not! We kept the soccer games competitive, the art room relaxing and all the stomachs very full. We truly enjoyed seeing our teens connect, many of whom have built relationships over time with one another—and their tutors.