A Beautiful Tapestry By Ashley
Welcome to the oval circle-a strangely shaped table in a tiny room in an energetic school temporarily housing myself and nine other tutors. I have mentioned that since January, I have been a literacy tutor for Kindergarten, 2nd and 4th graders. My heart is full, and my cup runneth over. I have truly enjoyed the adventure with the kids I teach. They each hold a special place in my heart. I have also grown very fond of the “kids” and the company (Bay Area Tutoring Association) I work with. I call the other tutors kids because most are my own kid’s age. 🙂
From Japan, China, India, Mexico, Alabama, New York, Illinois, and California, we form a beautiful tapestry sewn together by a common purpose: to help kids read. While this is noble in and of itself, the tutors have proven to be a gift far beyond teaching reading. I would like to introduce you to this beautiful tapestry.
Ale is our fearless leader. He has a big heart and a calming presence (even if he doesn’t think so). He is in charge of 20 programs and still manages to keep all balls in the air!
Brenda, our ever-thoughtful site manager, has worked to keep all of us tutors sorted and do her regular job of running the lab at Rocketship. Her support and friendship are greatly appreciated!
Amy is kind and gentle but also has a seriously feisty streak. Scattergories competitors, watch your back! You are gonna make a great teacher, Amy! Remember, self-care will be your best friend at times!
Bernice is an organizer of all things…people, materials, furniture…you name it! She also has a big heart for kids! Whether in healthcare or childcare, you will do well!
Drusilla is an upbeat, positive ball of energy. She tries to see the best in everyone and will make an excellent counselor! Remember to breathe, everything will work out!
Taylor is quiet but has a sly, funny, and dry humor. I speak for everyone when I say I will miss her coloring sheets! Good luck with your pursuit of a library job. I have no doubt you will love it there, and the library will be lucky to have you!
Nuha is a quirky kind of fun and always seems ready for an adventure. She is a coder who is searching for her place in this world. You will find it!
Angel is quiet and kind but oh so talented. What an artist!! Y’all, if this one isn’t famous someday, something is wrong.
Caleb is brilliant and playful—such a cool guy! He will have an incredible career as an engineer, but he would also make a fantastic teacher someday! I’m just throwing it out there!
Emma is joyful and caring. Her calm presence permeates whatever space she occupies. Keep reaching for your dreams of becoming a college professor. You will undoubtedly be a blessing to all you teach!
Minaksi is grounded and so versatile! She plays chess, dances, acts and is returning to school for another degree. In a little less than five months, she will be a Momma! So awesome!
I will remember my time tutoring with this beautiful tapestry of people with fondness and deep gratitude. Thank you, Bay Area Tutoring Association and Rocketship, for a lovely journey. Keep up the fantastic work, and above all, keep loving the kids! Your work matters!
With much love,
