Spotlight on Doing Good

Jessica Bazel grew up at Valley Beth Shalom, attended the ECC, and graduated from the Day School three years ago. At VBS, Jessica learned the tremendous value of community service and giving back. Now a 15 year old high school freshman at Campbell Hall, she is one of eight “Homework Helpers,” tutoring students through the free K-6 after school program organized by Valley Beth Shalom’s Youth Department. 

The Homework Helpers program began in late August 2020 to address the needs of students adapting to an online learning environment amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. While there were students in grades K-6 who needed help with math and writing lessons, there were also teens struggling to meet their service requirements with so many volunteer opportunities being canceled. Camryn Kruger, our VBS Director of Youth Engagement, saw a unique opportunity to meet these students’ needs. There are currently 10 students in grades K-6 participating in the Homework Helpers program Monday through Thursday afternoons on Zoom.

Jessica fell in love with tutoring after her first session. She tutors kindergartner Kaylie three times per week for one hour. Jessica says Kaylie really likes school, and even wants more time together; “she was upset by the 2 week school vacation, and is always so excited to sit down and do more,” said Jessica. She continued, “Kaylie is smart, and a fast learner. I’m helping her in reading and math to supplement what she learns in school.” Jessica also teaches new concepts so that Kaylie can have a head start in her traditional classroom. During their sessions, Kaylie’s grandma is there to help turn pages, and every couple of weeks Jessica checks in with Kaylie’s mom, Talya, to make a plan for future tutoring sessions. 

Besides getting to spend time with Kaylie, Jessica also sees the great benefits of participating in the Homework Helper program. The program helped Jessica add more structure to her day: “It holds me accountable. I have to be up and alert so I can motivate her and stay positive, which motivates me to do my best in my own work.” She even received a sweet treat from Kaylie and Talya as a thank you during Hanukkah. Teen tutors can also receive community service hours for their hours spent in the program. 

Are you interested in becoming a Homework Helper?  The VBS Youth Department is currently in search of a few more tutors. Tutors must have good grades, be in 9th grade or higher and available at least one day a week for one hour. Additional criteria may apply. All applicants should email the Director of Youth Engagement, Camryn Kruger, atckruger@vbs.org with their interest and availability and a subsequent form will be sent to them. 

Article written by Nitzan Barlev and Camryn Kruger.