Homework Help Volunteer

Homework Help volunteers provide academic support to students in Grades K-12. Alongside library staff, Homework Help volunteers play a key role in encouraging students as they study and learn. Homework Help programs are two hours long on a weekday afternoon or early evening, beginning in January 2026, at Lake Stevens, Lynnwood, Marysville, and Mill Creek libraries.  

Volunteers must be 16 or older, commit to serving a minimum of six months, and participate in a two-hour training session. Volunteers 18 years and older must satisfactorily pass a criminal background check. Volunteers aged 16-17 must provide a letter of recommendation from a non-family member in lieu of a background check. Letters of recommendation should be emailed to jsullivan@sno-isle.org. 

Tasks: 

  • Arrive 15 minutes before the start of Homework Help.  
  • Work with library staff to create a friendly and welcoming environment. 
  • Actively listen to a student’s homework questions and assist them to the best of your ability.  
  • Praise and reinforce a student’s work and effort. Provide constructive feedback as needed.  
  • If a student does not have a specific assignment requiring help, facilitate a learning game provided by the library, or practice reading together. 
  • Refer a student or parent/caregiver to library staff when needed. 
  • Participate in 5-10 minute group debrief following the end of Homework Help. 

 

Skills & Abilities:  

Homework Help volunteers should demonstrate the following skills and abilities to successfully participate in this program: 

  • Arrive consistently at the expected date and time.  
  • Exhibit patience and respect when interacting with students, parents, and caregivers. 
  • Accept directions from library staff, follow library policies and procedures, and adhere to standards set forth in the volunteer training. 
  • If a current student, have a 3.0 GPA or higher. If not a current student, have a minimum of 2 years of experience in an educational or tutoring setting. 

 

Application Process:  

  • Complete the online application and supplemental questions.  
  • If 16 or 17, provide a letter of recommendation from a non-family member. 
  • If 18 or older, consent to the background check process. 
  • Participate in brief interview with library staff. 

Supervision: 

  • Volunteers will receive support from local staff administering the program. Volunteers report to the Volunteer Coordinator or Library Manager at the library where they are volunteering.