TUSTIN : Tutoring Program Is a Team Effort

Twice a week at the end of the day at Robert P. Heideman Elementary School, rather than heading to play, students gather in the library to begin their studying.

They don’t even seem to mind it.

In a program recently developed among the city, Heideman and Silicon Systems, employees from the Tustin-based company take a couple of hours each week to assist first- through fifth-graders in math, reading or homework.

The one-on-one tutoring program began Sept. 14 and has grown from six children to 15.

“I haven’t been involved in anything that was so rewarding,” said Gary Magill, recreation supervisor for the city. “Everyone comes out walking on air. It’s good for everyone: the school, the volunteers, the company.”

The 18 tutors come every Monday and Wednesday afternoon for an hour to help children who have been referred by their teacher. The company has also contributed money for children’s books and for a program coordinator.

The city, led by Mayor Leslie Anne Pontious, wants to spread the tutoring program to other schools and companies.

“Our goal this year was to have an after-school tutoring program . . . and we were looking for a means of helping students improve their academics and to feel better about themselves,” said Heideman Principal Pat James. “If they are successful in academics, they feel good about themselves.”

Jose Lema, the project coordinator, said he already sees improvement in students.

“The kids have been really excited,” he said. “They want to bring their friends.”

Rocio Wolfe, a purchasing secretary at Silicon Systems, finds that through tutoring she can offer children personal attention they may not get elsewhere.

“It’s a lot of fun and a great feeling,” Wolfe said. “Because they have brothers and sisters, they don’t get the same attention as when there is only one person there. Having one person’s attention makes them feel good.”

Bob Robbins, a systems programmer, said he volunteered in part because he misses his two daughters, who live in Colorado.

“It seemed like a neat thing to do and a nice way to give back to the community that I live in,” says Robbins, 34. “And the kids seem to really enjoy it too.”