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 Questions About Classes Q: Do I have to speak Spanish to be a volunteer teacher? A: Not at all. Most of our volunteer teachers speak little or no Spanish. The students are here to learn English, so the more English they hear, the more they learn. In fact, we ask that if you DO speak Spanish, you minimize your use of it with the students. Q: Do I need teaching experience to be a volunteer teacher? A: Nope. We just need your willingness. VMLC will provide teacher training before each semester begins to help you in the classroom. The only requirement is your desire to help others. Q: I've never taught a class before. How do I know what to teach? A: We've taken care of that for you also. We have a prepared curriculum for you to use as a guide to your lesson planning each week. There are also teaching aids available. Q: How many students and teachers are in each class? A: This number varies a little, but generally, there are approximately 20 adult students and two volunteer teachers per class. Q: What if I have to miss class? A: If you travel for work or have a previous commitment that you are unable to change, your partner can handle teaching the class alone. Also, sometimes we have fantastic part-time teachers who can fill in when needed. However, to keep consistency for the students and your teaching partner, it is better if you can be there each week. Q: Do I have to buy any books or materials? A: No. VMLC will provide all of your essential teaching materials. Questions About Volunteering Q: It seems there's lots to be done. How many people volunteer teach at VMLC? A: At last count, there were approximately 150 weekly volunteer teachers, 10 office volunteers, and four Children's Program volunteers. But we're always looking for more eager helpers! Q: I'm very interested in volunteering. What type of time commitment would I be making? A: The average time commitment for a volunteer teacher is approximately two to three hours a week, including preparation time, for a period of 12 weeks (one semester). The fall semester begins in September and lasts until the middle of December. VMLC takes off the same holidays as DISD, as well as the entire week of Thanksgiving. The spring semester begins in mid-January and lasts through April. Q: What days of the week do you need volunteers? A: Volunteer teachers are needed Monday through Thursday. Office volunteer opportunities are available Monday through Friday. Q: I have a full-time job, so I can only teach at night. Will that be a problem if I want to volunteer teach? A: Not at all. We offer classes in the mornings, afternoons and evenings, so we are flexible on the hours that you are available to volunteer teach. Q: Do I need to be computer literate to work in the office? A: It is not required, although computer skills of any level can be very helpful to us. General Information Questions Q: I know VMLC is a nonprofit organization. So, where does your money come from? A: We have a wide network of supporters, including various foundations, faith-based organizations and generous individuals. We receive no government funding. For a complete list of our supporters and affiliates, click here. Q: It seems like you touch the lives of so many. How many students do you have? A: At last count, we taught approximately 600 adults and 140 preschool-aged children each year. Q: How large is your staff? A: Great question! We have five full-time staff members and six part-time Children's Program teachers. Now you know why we need so many volunteers! Q: When were you founded? A: Vickery Meadow Learning Center was founded in 1997 by Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church. VMLC is a free-standing 501 (c) 3 organization, and we receive support from all types of religious and non-religious organizations. We consider ourselves a community-based program. |
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