The transition to learning at home for students and their families has been a challenging one, especially for those who need additional support in the areas of math and literacy. To respond to this immediate need, School of Education teacher candidates and Teacher Education Stream students were hired through the Trent Summer Work Experience Program to provide one-to-one, virtual tutoring sessions for elementary and secondary school students, mostly in the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (KPRDSB).

The Remote Learning Support (RLS) Program provides support in the areas of math and reading for Grades 1-6, math, reading and science for Grades 7-8 and a range of subject areas for Grades 9-12, taking place over a six-week period. Roughly 35 teacher candidates are helping to support 400+ students who signed up for the program, meeting with each student virtually once a week for 30-50 minutes (based on grade level), and for some, twice per week.   

KPRDSB director of Education, Jennifer Leclerc stated that, “Our ongoing partnership with Trent University continues to blossom innovatively. KPRDSB is thrilled by the response of parents to Trent’s offer to tutor students in our community.”

Coordinating the program is Meredith March, a Bachelor of Education alum and current Masters of Education student, who is using her own training and classroom experience to help guide Teacher candidates through this new initiative.

“I'm so excited to be helping out with this program because it's giving parents and students additional support they need during these challenging times,” said Ms. March. “Our tutors are able to use the skills they've acquired through the Education program to assist families, and they're also building some great skills in remote teaching.”