Empower Adult Learners: ELL Tutor & AmeriCorps Member

Overview

About Literacy Mid-South (LMS):
For more than 50 years, LMS has remained committed to one core belief: literacy changes lives. Since its founding in 1974, LMS has expanded to serve learners of all ages across the Mid-South. Our mission is to ensure that individuals and families have access to literacy skills needed to thrive academically, economically, and personally. Literacy is a pathway to empowerment, equity, and long-term community transformation.

About Literacy Corps:
Literacy Corps is Literacy Mid-South’s Ameri Corps program that provides service opportunities for members who are passionate about improving literacy in Memphis. Members work with community organizations, schools, and other literacy partners to make a real difference in the lives of families, children, and individuals.

Position Summary:

The Literacy Corps Adult ELL Volunteer Tutor serves as an Ameri Corps member partnering with Barr Brands to support adult English Language Learners (ELLs) as they build communication skills needed for everyday life and the workplace. Working in a welcoming, learner-centered environment, the Tutor facilitates small-group English language learning classes focused on practical communication, workplace readiness, and learner confidence. Members create engaging learning experiences that strengthen reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills while fostering dignity, cultural responsiveness, and a sense of belonging for adult learners from diverse backgrounds.

This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about literacy, lifelong learning, immigrant and refugee communities, and creating equitable educational opportunities for adults.

The Adult ELL Volunteer Tutor will:

• Instruction & Learner Support

• Facilitate two small-group adult English language learning classes each week.
• Deliver engaging, learner-centered instruction using LMS-approved curriculum and instructional resources.
• Support adult learners in developing practical English communication skills through reading, writing, speaking, and listening activities.
• Incorporate conversation-based learning that strengthens workplace and everyday communication.
• Differentiate instruction to accommodate varying English proficiency levels and learning goals.
• Foster learner confidence through encouragement, positive reinforcement, and individualized support.

• Learning Environment

• Create a welcoming, inclusive, and culturally responsive classroom environment where every learner feels respected and valued.
• Build positive relationships with learners from diverse cultural, linguistic, and educational backgrounds.
• Encourage consistent attendance, participation, and learner persistence.

• Progress Monitoring & Documentation

• Maintain accurate attendance records and Ameri Corps service documentation.
• Support learner goal setting and monitor progress toward individual learning objectives.
• Administer approved pre-assessments, post-assessments, surveys, or learner feedback tools as required.
• Maintain confidential learner information in accordance with Literacy Mid-South policies.

• Collaboration & Professional Development

• Participate in Ameri Corps orientation, required training, coaching sessions, and regular program meetings.
• Communicate consistently with Literacy Mid-South staff regarding learner progress, instructional needs, and site updates.
• Collaborate with Barr Brands staff and LMS personnel to ensure a positive learning experience.
• Complete all required Ameri Corps documentation and reporting accurately and on time.

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
• Passion for literacy, adult education, community service, and educational equity.
• Ability to communicate effectively with individuals from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
• Dependable, organized, and able to manage time effectively.
• Comfortable facilitating instruction in small-group settings.
• Willingness to learn instructional strategies for adult English language learners.

Preference may be given to candidates with:

• Experience teaching, tutoring, mentoring, coaching, or facilitating…