STUDY BUDDY
Impacting a Student's Education Experience
Your time can make a difference to a student who needs help passing a spelling test. Your involvement can be the catalyst for an intriguing science project.
Study Connection, a program of Franklin Education Connection, began in 2005 as a collaboration between Community Involvement in Learning (CIL), Franklin College, Franklin Community School Corporation and local volunteers. Each year, more than 75 volunteers donate more than 3,000 hours of homework help and friendship to students Grades 1-8.
More students are on a waiting list. They need your help.
Apply
How Study Buddy Works
As a Study Buddy volunteer, you will meet with your student one hour per week. You collaborate with the child’s teacher and site coordinator on study goals.
Our Direct Connection Program allows Study Buddies who can’t participate after school to schedule a time during the school day to meet with their student.
Study Buddies come from all walks of life: college students, homemakers, working professionals, married couples, retirees and community volunteers. Study Buddies share a passion for helping young students succeed in school and life.
What is Involved
Tutor Requirements
You must be 18 years old or older.
You must have a high school diploma or GED.
Training
Training will be provided.Commitment
Attend training and acquire necessary materials.
Agree to volunteer for one hour a week for one school year. However, some Study Buddies “share” students. In these cases Study Buddies alternate weeks working with their student.
More to Know About Being a Study Buddy
Will I really be able to help my student?
Our answer is: “ABSOLUTELY!”
Franklin Community Schools officials report that 93.7 percent of students in our program have shown improvement in at least six academic areas from the beginning of the school year to the end.
It’s been a while since I have been in school. What if I can’t remember a subject?
If there is something that comes up and you either have forgotten it or aren’t sure, just ask the school’s site coordinator or look it up with your student and learn it together.
Will I receive training?
Yes, you will be invited to an orientation meeting along with training sessions during the year.
What if I miss a day of Study Connection?
It would be great if none of us ever had to miss, but in reality we do. Just explain to your student and let your school’s site coordinator know.
How long is the commitment?
Becoming a Study Buddy is a one-year commitment, but the program has a volunteer return rate of 82 percent. It really is that rewarding!
Can I have the same child year after year?
Yes, as long as the child stays in the program. But, the goal is to get them up to or above their peers both academically and socially, so don’t be surprised if your student actually tests out of the program after a year or two.
What grade levels will I have?
Currently, the program works with second through sixth grades.
What if I just don’t connect with my student?
After a short period of trying a few things, you will either receive a new student or switch with another volunteer.
Do all the tutors ever get together?
Yes. We spend time together at orientation, training sessions, the annual meet and greet and at a volunteer appreciation dinner at the end of the year. It’s a great time!
What schools are served by the program?
Creekside, Northwood, Needham, Webb and Union elementary schools and Custer Baker Intermediate School.