Aug 14, 2008 4:32 pm US/Pacific
Save With Dave: Free Tutoring Service
FOLSOM (CBS13) ―
Some valley kids are already back in school, and the others will be headed back soon. Here are some ways to save money on tutoring services.
All parents hope to have a little Einstein in the family, but the fact is many kids need help with their school work. Here's a way you can get them a one-on-one tutor for free.
The Folsom Library has a cool, new program that hooks kids up with live, online tutors at no cost to you.
"Anyone in the area that has a Folsom Library card can use it," said Stephanie Bertin, youth services librarian.
And the thing is, any California resident can get a Folsom library card.
You just log into the program called "Brainfuse" through the library's website.
The student selects the grade level and subject they're working on and a tutor pops up in an instant messaging format--ready to help out.
The company uses a stringent process in selecting its tutors.
"The service requires a four-year degree. Brainfuse does background checks, they provide ongoing professional training so it's a really rigorous process so you're really getting really great tutors," said Stephanie.
They can help work out specific homework questions and help kids brush up on a certain subject. Students can even get feedback on a paper or report.
"Within 24 hours someone has read your paper, made comments and then you get an email back telling you that your paper is ready to pick up," said Stephanie.
And if you're worried about the instant message format, Stephanie assures they've thought about that as well.
"It's a secure chat, it's just you and the tutor that have access to it," said Stephanie.
And remember, anyone living in California can get a Folsom Library card and use the tutoring service. We did some looking online and found similar Internet tutoring services start around $90 a month.
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