Meet Tom Mock, Transitional Studies Tutor
Tom volunteers his time and talents to the Department of Transitional Studies at the Goodwill Career Center on Patton Avenue. There he provides one-to-one and small group math tutoring to individuals enrolled in the Adult Basic Education and High School Equivalency (ABE/HSE) program. When he is not tutoring, in Vivian Humphrey and Mary Sutton's classrooms, he assists students with the use of technology and hands-on student math class learning experiences. He also assembles and creates learning units. "His dependability and calming rapport with all students is a real asset," says Humphrey.
Tom's professional background in engineering and business provides students a unique opportunity to experience different instructional and contextual examples of math in action. "His ability to pull from his engineering and business experience to create learning modalities that students can relate to and comprehend is an invaluable addition to the classroom," said Humphrey. She was also quick to point out Tom's innate ability to identify struggling students and provide just the right approach to help them grasp difficult math concepts, "he can work in any subject and has an unlimited expertise in mathematics."
The impact of Tom's support in the classroom is immeasurable. Vivian and Mary report they are better equipped to ensure all students receive face-to-face instruction as a direct result of Tom's support in their classrooms and they have more time to better match students understanding of their instructional needs. Students have noticed the difference also. They often share with their instructors their appreciation of the supportive and caring atmosphere that the addition of a community volunteer creates in the classroom. Students are taken aback to know members of the greater community are so invested in their success.
Mary and Vivian are pleased with the opportunity to shine a spotlight on Tom's contribution to the college and thank him for all he does to ensure student success. Tom is greatly appreciated.
To learn more about volunteering for the Department of Transitional Studies at A-B Tech contact Campus Volunteer Coordinator, Patti Cameron at (828) 398-7761 or volunteer@abtech.edu