Students Helping Students: STJ Peer Tutors

by: Foster Rasmussen, Peer Tutor

The Saint James Peer Tutor program has developed into an amazing asset for students at Saint James. Even though the writing center is still new, peer tutors have been able to assist many students and help with various assignments. Mrs. Ramsey, our awesome librarian, saw a need amongst students for an efficient and trustworthy tutoring center. Since last year, the program has expanded to both Senior and Junior tutors, who can connect with all different types of students. This year’s peer tutors are Foster Rasmussen, Selina Sun, Anna Dickey, Taylor Schofield, Jordan Wesley, Kelsey Shaffer, and Kiya Jupiter. Mrs. Ramsey selected this amazing team to help with essays and other writing assignments. The Writing Center team meets roughly once a month to discuss major upcoming assignments in any English classes, and to also break down certain scenarios they have encountered in order to improve as tutors. The tutors are skilled writers and are proficient in their English classes. Peer tutors also participated in training over the summer, and under the guidance of Mrs. Ramsey, prepared for situations they might encounter with students. 

Peer Tutor, Foster Rasmussen, with sophomore student Logan Hartson

Most of the students seeking assistance are looking for help with English essays, and tutors typically help with works cited pages, thesis development, and essay structure. Since last year, arranging an appointment has become even easier and students can now go directly to their desired tutor. Students can make an appointment with a tutor by signing up on a Google Doc or by simply emailing the tutor they wish to meet with. Appointments last for around thirty minutes and are typically held in the library before school, though students can arrange for a zoom meeting on most days. Peer tutors enjoy helping students who are eager to improve their writing skills, and we all share a common goal of making lasting writing habits that will carry on throughout the rest of their schooling. We look forward to helping students with all of their writing needs, and go Trojans!