Students tutor kids

Members of the West Philadelphia Tutoring Project are calling on University students to increase their involvement in community schools. Throughout last semester, over 300 students volunteered their time to tutor at West Philadelphia elementary, middle, and high schools. For one hour a week, they were bussed to one of 21 area schools to work one-on-one with local students. The tutoring project has had to turn away children because there are not enough tutors. WPTP members hope to see a greater number of University students involved this semester. But for those who feel they are unable to give the time necessary for tutoring, the WPTP is asking for donations of math books. Because West Philadelphia schools are so severely underfunded, students at University City High School do not even have mathematics texts, according to College senior Jeff Zilberstein. Zilberstein, who is the team leader and coordinator for the program at University City, asked that University students donate any math books from the past semester they will no longer be using. He said texts ranging from basic arithmetic to calculus are needed. They can be delivered to the Program for Student-Community Involvement Office at 3601 Locust Walk. WPTP members stressed the importance of participating in the program in any capacity. "Every little bit and each student that you touch?is special," Zilberstein said. Wharton freshman and elementary school tutor Jodi Kimelstein agreed. "It is important to share what you know with the people who have not had the same opportunities you have had," she said. College senior Joseph Olivieri, who has been tutoring high school students for the past two years, said he has not only given to the program, he has also gained from it. "It's an amazing thing to do?and an incredibly rewarding experience," he said. "You are inspiring them and you get inspired by them. "And when you get a lesson across, it's incredible -- it's worth the frustration," Olivieri added. Orientation sessions for students interested in tutoring will be held at Houston Hall on Jan. 23 and 26 at 7:00 pm.