A new school year brings many opportunities to try something new and become more involved in the community. As she entered her senior year, Vanessa Jacinto contemplated how she could share her Spanish skills with others
Since she had already completed all Spanish classes offered at Del Val, Jacinto started offering tutoring for Spanish students of all levels. She hoped of helping anyone struggling with the class. The tutoring sessions usually take place during Unit Lunch in the Commons or E112 where they discuss “the focal point of the problem.”
Jacinto created a Google Form to send out the information and make the sign up accessible for everyone.
Before tutoring at Del Val, Jacinto previously assisted with similar matters at Reading Fleming Intermediate School, JP Case Middle School and Hunterdon Central High School. Jacinto tutored students who were learning to speak English and those who were learning Spanish.
“I would translate for ESL students and stay after school to help them with any homework or assignments they needed help with,” Jacinto said.
When asked about the tutoring, Jacinto stated she currently has a few regular students that she tutors and looks forward to having more students reach out for Spanish help. She hopes to show her peers that Spanish is not so difficult and that they can learn a new language.
“I think I need to promote it more, so people know it’s a thing, and so they’re not scared of asking me,” Jacinto said.
Jacinto explained that she faced a few minor obstacles to start up the tutoring sessions.
“Not all of the Spanish teachers agreed with the idea, but that didn’t stop me from doing what I love,” Jacinto said.
Jacinto feels deep appreciation for the teachers who came to her support to get the program running smoothly.
“When I first came up with the idea, I spoke to Mr. Kluska and Mrs. Civitillo for their opinions,” Jacinto said. “Then Mrs. Miceli opened the idea of using the Commons.”
One of Jacinto’s most memorable moments from tutoring was when she helped sophomore Marcela Renda study for a quiz during lunch.
According to Renda, the tutoring sessions have positively affected her performance in Spanish class and improved her skills overall.
“My experience has been pretty good, I have good grades in the class,” Renda said. “Vanessa also helps and talks to you outside of tutoring if you need.”
Aside from helping other students, these tutoring sessions have also been beneficial for Jacinto herself. Not only is she meeting new people, but she is practicing skills she will be using in her future career. Jacinto plans to go to college for social work, so the tutoring sessions allow her to practice speaking and getting more comfortable with students.
“My love and passion for Spanish has taught me that I can help people and show them that they can learn something new,” Jacinto said.
With the Spanish tutoring, Jacinto’s ultimate goal is to be supportive for students who are struggling with the language so that they can have a positive experience.
“I can help in any shape or form, I’m always open to help,” Jacinto said. “Just find and fill out the form or email me. There’s always time for everyone.”
