What is the Ozark Foothills Literacy Project (OFLP)?
It is an independent nonprofit organization, governed by a volunteer board of directors. The mission is to o empower adults and improve communities through teaching literacy. OFLP serves Independence, Sharp and Fulton Counties. If you live outside our service area but have not been able to find assistance through another literacy council, please contact us.
What programs are offered by OFLP?
OFLP offers basic literacy instruction to both native speakers of English, and those for whom English is not a first language. Instruction is primarily provided by trained volunteer tutors in a one-to-one setting, with occasional small group settings. OFLP also offers has English conversation groups for English-language learners at certain times of the year.
What is required to be a tutor?
Tutors must be at least 18 years of age, and possess the ability to read and speak English fluently. Tutor training is provided for volunteer tutors before being assigned to a student.
Do I need previous teaching experience?
No. OFLP will provide you with training and support.
Should a tutor know a language other than English?
Knowledge of a language other than English is not necessary.
How are tutoring assignments made?
The tutor is matched with a student, taking into account the needs, skills, goals and location of the student(s) and tutor(s). Time and overall availability are also factors considered.
Where does tutoring take place?
Tutoring is conducted at various public venues throughout Independence, Sharp and Fulton Counties. These include libraries, churches, schools, and other mutually agreed upon, neutral, safe sites.
How often do tutors meet with their students?
Tutors and students are asked to meet 2 hours each week. Some meet one hour twice per week, others meet two hours once per week.
Is a tutor expected to teach a certain length of time?
Tutors are asked to make a one year commitment.
Is there a cost for the training or tutoring?
We ask volunteers to consider a voluntary, tax-deductible contribution to OFLP to defray the cost of materials. In addition, we invite both students and tutors to pay for their books, materials, and other curriculum if they can do so. It is important to remember that no one is ever denied the opportunity to learn or to volunteer because of the costs involved.
What resources are available to assist me with my tutoring?
The OFLP Director is available by phone at 870-793-5912 and by email at info @ literacyindependence.org. OFLP also has a small lending library. To view available materials, please stop by our office or visit our online library listing.
How do I track my student’s progress?
The monthly tutor report is located on this website. We ask that you send in a monthly report and this can be done via the website or sent through the mail (45 Thunderbird Dr., Batesville, AR 72501). If you have questions about whether or not your student is progressing appropriately, please contact us.
