As a 10,000 Degrees volunteer at Davidson Middle School in San Rafael, I tutor math, but mentorship is where the true transformation begins—math is simply the doorway. Last year, I supported an 8th-grade student who was failing multiple classes and at risk of missing her graduation ceremony. After she shared how much it mattered to walk, we built a plan together, and with weekly check-ins and strong coordination with her counselor, her grades rose from F’s to C’s. She proudly walked at graduation—and the hug she asked for on our final day remains one of my greatest accomplishments.
This year, my role has grown through direct partnership with a 6th-grade math teacher, working with his most at-risk students in the library to strengthen their general math confidence and help them feel capable. I’m also guided by the school librarian, who mentors me in supporting bilingual students, especially valuable since I have no formal teaching background. Beyond the school walls, I bridge communities by engaging my own peer network to donate games, puzzles, and enrichment materials the students use during lunch. Through all of this, I’ve learned that volunteerism radiates outward in ways you can’t anticipate—and is always more rewarding than imagined. And for anyone considering it: don’t be afraid of the subject or the age group. Middle schoolers are simply longing to be seen, heard, and supported, and even small moments of consistency can change their trajectory.
Academic Success volunteer since 2023
Math, Davidson Middle School, San Rafael
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