We can all learn something from one another—that is especially true for people from different generations. Building connections and camaraderie with others, regardless of age and background, can have a powerful impact. Nowhere is that more evident than in the success of intergenerational tutoring, like the program created by St. Louis Oasis.
Founded locally, Oasis Intergenerational Tutoring is now one of the largest programs of its kind, helping children across the United States. Since 1989, it has reached more than 600,000 children in 13 states. In Missouri alone, the program serves approximately 1,800 kindergarten through third grade students in 181 schools across 40 school districts—all while giving older adults the opportunity to give back and teach the next generation. T&S spoke with Oasis chief purpose officer Stephanie McCreary to learn more about the program and its impact.
How does the tutoring program benefit the tutors?
Oasis tutoring was built for older adults to have meaningful engagement. We want seniors to have access to an engaged and active lifestyle, whether it’s through lifelong learning, wellness classes or volunteer opportunities. In general, volunteering can lead to better mental and physical health outcomes. By becoming a tutor, they get to help students master basic skills while also acting as a mentor and friend. Participants meet with students once a week for the duration of the school year. It gives them a new sense of purpose and commitment.
What about the students?
Working with an Oasis tutor gives students support outside of their teacher or other school staff. Instead of seeing it as more work, they get to learn from a friend and mentor who is showing up just for them. It’s about building a relationship, and through that connection comes academic success.
With September being National Literacy Month, how does Oasis tutoring help students build these skills?
Reading scores are not where educators, parents or students want them to be. According to USAFacts, only 31% of fourth graders were reading proficiently in 2024. Oasis Tutoring is a low- to no-cost, highly effective intervention for school districts and partner sites, such as the YMCA and church groups. We become part of the school community and get engaged on a deeper level. We don’t support just one student. Our program impacts what teachers are able to do with their entire classrooms. For students participating in Oasis tutoring, 97% have improved their reading scores by two levels or more.
What does a tutoring session look like?
For our literacy program, tutors go through training and are given materials for their first lessons, so they already have a plan and structure for their initial meetings with the student. Each session usually includes reading, discussion and reviewing the child’s writing. It’s designed to give the child a sense of accomplishment.
How is the Oasis tutoring program expanding?
We have launched a math program. It’s been in Missouri school districts for two years now. It brings that same sense of connection and support to learning all things math. The results are promising. One hundred percent of students in the program are showing improvement.
How does Oasis support its tutors?
Along with initial tutor training, we offer continued professional development. Our tutors are not required to have previous experience. We provide them with eductor-developed materials and methods as well as ongoing support, such as our online and in-person libraries and Tutor University, a learning series designed to provide new ideas, strategies and inspiration throughout the school year.
Are there any requirements to becoming a tutor?
No—that’s the real beauty of the program. We love when retired teachers and other educators get involved, but we’re thrilled whenever anyone wants to help a student. Learning to read is not something that happens naturally. No matter our backgrounds, we had to learn at one point. Our intergenerational model is built on connection. It’s not just about changing literacy or math outcomes. We want to help people share experiences and grow together. It’s a wonderful thing for children and adults. Every child can benefit from a mentor and extra support. We’d love to have an Oasis tutor for every student that is struggling.
For more information, visit st-louis.oasisnet.org/tutoring.
