A complex problem created by the coronavirus pandemic had some of Durango High School’s brightest students brainstorming for a way to help. They quickly came up with a smart solution.
Without face-to-face instruction the rest of the school year because of COVID-19, some students have found it more difficult to get through lessons and stay up to speed as the school year winds down to a conclusion.
With children from kindergarten through 12th grade now learning remotely from home, Durango High School National Honor Society students have come together to offer tutoring to any student in need of some extra help.
“We have already had a few tutors helping out students,” said DHS senior Maddie Jo Robbins. “Last week, I tutored an elementary student over Zoom, and it worked super well. The student was able to share their computer screen with me, thereby allowing me to see their work. We were able to talk through their math work. Zoom also has a function that allowed me to draw out math equations on the screen for the student.
“In one hour, the student and I were able to go through a week’s worth of math. It was a super enriching experience for both of us. I can’t wait for this week’s session.”
At DHS, National Honor Society students must maintain an unweighted grade-point average of 3.8 or higher and display good character, academic honesty and complete 14 hours of school based community service.
Any 9-R student or parent who would like to request a tutor or peer mentor for any subject or multiple subjects can sign up online at the DHS website under the “Principal’s Message” section.
“NHS tutors are ready to FaceTime, Skype, Zoom, etc. with students who could use a bit of help and support,” Robbins said. “The situation we are in is very unusual for all students and teachers. Our NHS tutors are ready to help out the community during this time.”
jlivingston@durangoherald.com