Volunteer with Us

Q: What is Top Honors?
A: Top Honors is a not-for-profit, fundamentals-focused tutoring program that targets middle school students. Our mission is to provide all students with fundamental math and critical thinking abilities for success as students and productive members of society. Learn more about us.

Q: Who are the tutors?
A: All of our tutors are volunteers. They work in a variety of industries such as finance, law, medicine, and technology, and share a passion for helping kids understand math. Some of our tutors are also self-proclaimed math enthusiasts from top local public and independent high schools.

Q: What training is offered to volunteer tutors?
A: As part of the application process, each volunteer tutor applicant must attend a two-hour orientation and training session given by Top Honors management. Tutors learn about our curriculum, operational processes, and teaching methods. In addition, Top Honors hosts periodic tutor development sessions throughout the year.

Q: How are students selected to take part in the program?
A: We help students who need help with basic math skills, are motivated to learn, and have strong parental support. We review student applications on a first-come, first-serve basis. In accordance with our funding and support, preference is given to students who attend public schools in NYC District 3.

Q: What kind of curriculum do you use?
A: Our curriculum is an in-house product targeted to the specific needs of your child that emphasizes basic mathematical concepts. While we value computational speed (it is math, after all), this is not to be confused with the pace at which your child works through the curriculum. Each student sets his own pace based on his comfort level. In our program, we stress teamwork, discipline, and problem-solving skills using real-life examples. Top Honors reinforces learning through games, competitions and awards. Learn more about our curriculum.

Q: What should I do if a student misbehaves?
A: On the first offense, issue a warning to the student. If he/she continues to misbehave, then consult a Top Honors supervisor on duty, who will take appropriate action, as necessary.

Q: What if I can’t make a session?
A: Please notify us as early as possible when you will be absent from a session so that we can make arrangements with a replacement tutor, if necessary.

Q: Who is behind Top Honors?
A: You can read about our team here.

Q: I think Top Honors does great work. I want to get involved. How can I help?
A: If you’d like to volunteer, please take the next step by submitting an application. You can also support us by making a tax-deductible donation.

Q: I’d like to volunteer as a tutor, but I can’t commit to the same time every week. Should I still apply?
A: Certainly, but please note that other tutor applicants with availability for the same weekly time slot will receive priority; our goal is to match each student with the same tutor week after week.

Q: Do I need prior tutoring or teaching experience to volunteer?
A: Absolutely not. You need only the desire to help middle school students learn math.

Q: I have a brand new iPod in its original packaging; can I donate it to Top Honors as a prize for the students?
A: Absolutely! We’ve found these incentives really motivate students to try their best.

Q: I would like to use my time spent volunteering with Top Honors for community service credit. Is this possible?
A: Yes. High school students often use this opportunity to fulfill service requirements. We see it as a win-win situation.

Q: Will I meet like-minded fellow tutors at Top Honors?
A: Definitely. We want our tutors to encourage each other, share effective tutoring techniques, and enjoy their time volunteering. We host quarterly social activities for all our volunteers as a way to build a sense of teamwork and improve our program.