WordCats MathCats
WordCats and MathCats Program is a Federal Work-Study Program (If you do not possess Federal Work-Study from Financial Aid, you do not qualify to apply to become a WordCats MathCats Tutor)
WordCats and MathCats (formerly America Reads*America Counts) are College of Education programs designed to raise reading and math skills in young children. Studies show that sustained individualized attention and after-school tutoring help children learn these important life skills.
Since 1997, the University of Arizona has been a site for both the America Reads and America Counts programs. Students who are eligible for federal work-study and have an interest in working with children may be hired as tutors and are placed in K-12 classrooms. Students may also participate as volunteers.
WordCats*MathCats provide opportunities for college students who wish to become teachers to gain valuable supervised classroom experience. Tutors work with elementary, middle or even high school students who can benefit from one-on-one support. Tutors usually work with one teacher and selected students.
The College of Education offers training for WordCats and MathCats tutors at the beginning of each semester. The training continues under the guidance of school professionals, college faculty and graduate students.
For more information about either program, please contact our curriculum coordinator Elizabeth Moraga or our program coordinator Liz Boyce. To apply to the program, to submit an application or for general questions please contact the Department of Teaching, Learning & Sociocultural Studies or call 520-621-1311.
Teachers Say:
"Our tutor was wonderful. My students looked forward to her time with us. She truly did enhance the learning."
"I noticed that my tutor is applying what she has learned through school and her experiences. I was impressed with her contribution."
Tutors Say:
"I was able to win over a child's respect and trust, a child almost everyone had given up on. He is doing extremely well."
"This program truly convinced me that I want to teach! Having the elementary school experience this semester has been rewarding. My student has made tremendous progress."