In a moment when the broader political landscape can feel daunting, it’s easy to wonder how one person can make a real difference. Here in our own community schools on the Upper West Side, there’s a clear and powerful way. Just a few hours of your time each week can help a student gain confidence, discover a love of learning, and feel the encouragement they need to thrive.
The Koopersmith Family Literacy + Math Program is now welcoming volunteer tutors for the 2025–26 school year. Volunteers work with public school students in grades pre-K to 5 who are developing their academic skills while navigating challenges including housing insecurity, financial hardship, and learning English. With your support, students will gain both skills and a sense of belonging in our community, while you experience the joy of making a tangible impact on a child’s life.
And you won’t do it alone. All volunteers receive program-specific, teacher-led training so you feel confident, connected, and prepared before day one.
Opportunities include:
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Reading Buddies: Share the joy of reading with students during lunch and recess.
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Intensive Literacy Tutoring: Work one-on-one with an early reader twice a week, using structured lessons and ongoing support from staff.
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English Language Learner After-School Support: Help multilingual students strengthen their language, academic, and social-emotional skills.
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General School Day Tutoring + Classroom Assistance: Partner with teachers to provide individual or small-group academic support during the day.
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After-School Academic + Enrichment Support: Assist with homework, literacy, play, fitness, and arts activities in a longstanding community program.
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Reading to the Tinies (Drop-In): Read aloud to pre-K students in a playful 30-minute after-school storytime.
Key Details:
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All sessions take place at partner schools and organizations on the Upper West Side.
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Commitments range from occasional drop-in (Reading to the Tinies) to weekly sessions (all other programs), with options for both daytime and after-school schedules.
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Tutoring begins October 21, 2025, and runs through May 22, 2026.
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All volunteers (ages 16+) must complete and pass a fingerprint-based background check.
Learn more here and apply here.
This fall, take a simple but powerful step: invest in the future of a student in your own community. Together, we can ensure every student has the chance to learn, grow, and succeed.
