For now and for what's next?
For Students:
Tutoring needs a rebrand. Just as we now know that teacher-directed, one-size-fits-all approaches are not the most effective teaching models, the same is true for tutoring. Student-centered, engaging support for students is what we call coaching. We coach students by helping them develop skillsets that will increase both their confidence and knowledge acquisition, not just for now, but for a lifetime.
For Caregivers:
We've all heard the "there's no manual for this!" comment when we hit hurdles as parents. While that's true, it doesn't mean we can't equip parents with research-based tactics to build confidence and improve family relationships. Some parents may prefer our one-on-one model, whereas others are seeking connections and community that they will get through our BYOB (bring your own baby) book clubs and seasonal clothing swaps.
STRONGER FAMILIES, STRONGER COMMUNITY:
We are in the business of empowerment. Empowerment doesn't come in a box, nor from a book or podcast. It is the strength that comes from a desire to learn tied with a source of information and support. We have three customer types and three services that offer both the information and the support individuals need to reach the next level of confidence in their role. Our customers are not just students, like other tutoring providers, but the parents and teachers that have the most influence over our students. Our services of coaching, enrichment, and community-building inspire growth, wellbeing, and connections that improve families and strengthen our community.
Imperfect in Arboro,
Jenna
My business model is to support, educate, and empower not only children, but their families and communities, too. Naturally, the piece of this article that resonates with me most is the development of skillsets and confidence that will be utilized long after a child leaves Arboro's physical doors. You can't meet a child where they are to address those skills and qualities in a one-size fits all approach. I appreciate that Arboro is working to ensure everyone who walks through their doors will have the confidence to try new things and the skills to learn from their mistakes (and try again). This will be pivotal as Arboro's children make their own way in the world, and something a lot of…
The one size fits all approach definitely needs to be rebranded! I agree that all students do not learn the same and the term "tutor" can be a bit discouraging for families and students. However, the idea of coaching students sounds more supportive with the academic needs of each child/family at Arboro.
SHALLY MENDEZ
I truly believe that it takes a village, so it is important to understand family dynamics when working with students! You can't determine who someone might deem their 'safe space' which is why everyone should be well versed in how to empower their student--coaches, teachers, parents, tutors, specialists, etc. In addition, life is not a 'one size fits all' most of the time--one way might work for someone and it might not for the next. This is why I appreciate the core-values here because of the authenticity and wanting to be versatile and not fit in a box!
-Christine Ngeve
Many years ago I set the to goal to I.C.E. (Inspire, Challenge, or Educate) at least one person that I cross paths with on a daily basis. Encouraging them to improve at least one percent a day to edify themselves and those around them-- ultimately aiding to the edification of our community as a whole. Coaching allows me to intentionally meet that goal, while building meaningful and lasting relationships along the way.
-Sherry Nicole Shaw-Adams