As we start the school year off, OVS student leaders once again take charge of bettering our community and bringing it closer together.
Last summer, senior and Prefect Rory Liu had the idea to start a peer tutoring program during nighttime study hall. Putting her idea into motion, she asked around and gathered support from other student leaders to tutor. Currently, six students are in the library every Wednesday night, prepared to help their peers.
Each of the senior leaders has a subject they specialize in; Rory tutors math, Chloe Ronning tutors history and English, Teni Aderibigbe tutors biology, Fin Marx tutors chemistry, Jessi Ponce Sanchez tutors Spanish, and Adele Erk tutors physics.
“The fact that students initiated a peer tutoring evening says a lot about our school,” said Kirste Williams, current OVS Learning Center teacher. “Working peer-to-peer is much more impactful for students, and sharing their skills and weaknesses builds community.”
Rory did not initially expect a great turnout on the first Wednesday. She figured students would be hesitant or nervous to ask for help so early in the year. Nevertheless, the student body proved her wrong.
“I expected nobody to show up, so I was surprised when about ten people were here on the first day,” said Rory.
It takes a lot for these leaders to set their own things aside and dedicate their time to helping others. They have been getting a good amount of respect from their peers, and seeing their drive helps motivate them to show up for their peers.
“It’s great when students come in who actually want to study and get help,” said Jessi.
The program is already allowing students to make connections with people they may not know otherwise. Building a community is a large part of success, and friendships only strengthen from here.
“To me, it’s more about peer connections and being able to work together and ask for help,” said Rory.