Tutor Spotlights

Congratulations to Amy Jones, December 2025 Tutor of the Month! 

As a literacy volunteer for over 35 years, Amy has helped numerous students learn about American culture and customs. She teaches small groups of beginner and advanced learners and will always remember how they supported each other during the scariest times of the pandemic.  Amy asks her students to write answers to questions such as “What would your perfect day be,” gathers the answers and has the group guess whose answer is whose. Everyone laughs a lot, realizing how well they know each other. But they’re also surprised about new things they learn about each other!

LVSC Journey: I first became an LVSC volunteer about 10 years ago, but I actually started with Literacy Volunteers in NYC over 35 years ago. I was motivated to help newcomers feel comfortable and welcomed, able to communicate, find work and make a life for themselves.

Memorable LVSC Moments: My groups have expanded beyond learning English. We talk about American customs, share our cultures and create a group of friends. The importance of our little community became especially clear during the pandemic, as our meetings continued via Google Meet. Many of my students were essential workers, going to work every day when little was known about the virus. We discussed our worries, shared information, and supported each other in that frightening time. Over the years, we’ve become like extended family, sharing our many life changes. We meet virtually, but also occasionally get together to share potluck lunches and sometimes frisbee in a local park.

Especially inspiring has been working with several of my students to help them become U.S. citizens. It’s wonderful to see their pride in this accomplishment and see the photographs of them holding the American flag at their citizenship ceremonies.

Potluck picnic with students!Day Job:  I worked in publishing until I became a full-time mom. With my kids now grown, I fill my time with various kinds of volunteer work.

Hobbies:  I enjoy music, dance and travel.

Favorite Quote:  "Instructions for living a life: Pay Attention. Be Astonished. Tell About It."  – Mary Oliver.

Favorite Food: I love sushi.

Favorite Book: I’m always reading, so that’s a really difficult question. A recent favorite is Birding to Change the World by Trish O’Kane. A great read and also very inspiring.

R&R Spot: I love being in peaceful forests or small, charming towns, but really I’m happy anywhere when I’m with my family or close friends.