SPA RTAN S POTLI G H T "Being able to rely on existing relationships with tutors is crucial," she said. "We know each other and use the same language. We're aligned on making sure each child is cared for in the best possible way." Known simply as the Resource Center in years past, CAL has since evolved into a robust enrichment service made possible by Mrs. Wilton's dedication to its growth as well as a generous $250,000 gift from the Robins Foundation in 1998 to be used specifically for CAL's expansion. Now, its tutors serve anywhere from 30 to well over 100 students at any given time. "CAL is not a one-size-fits-all program," Mrs. Akinfolajimi explained. "Sometimes students just need help getting over a hump. After a month, they may not need our services again. Or, we have students who meet with tutors several times a week for a longer period of time. Whether
it's a 20-minute session or an hour, we can accommodate for nearly any situation." Recently, CAL has been offering fully integrated virtual tutoring sessions. For students learning at home, that means tutors and students can now meet within the comfort of their own separate spaces. Options are also available for on-campus students to Zoom with their tutors in the redesigned learning spaces, which are limited to one student at a time and are sanitized after each use. Additionally, tutors have been relocated to spaces within each division to allow for social distancing and proximity to students and faculty. CAL has also seen an uptick in visits from students who simply need space to decompress. "Our focus goes beyond classwork. We are always looking at providing social and emotional support, because when those needs are met, students are
better able to learn and grow," Mrs. Akinfolajimi said. She brings 12 years of experience as a social worker with Henrico County Public Schools to her current position, and her background in mental health counseling undergirds the vision for CAL she laid out earlier this year: "I believe that the responsibility for student success is a shared one, and that every child’s individuality must be respected and understood."
See below to learn more about a few of the passionate tutors serving CAL's mission to respect and understand every student.
CHERYL LAFFERTY
LAURA PRUITT
JOHN DACEY
Number of years with CAL: 3
Number of years with CAL: This is Mrs. Pruitt's first year with CAL.
Number of years with CAL: 2
Professional background: Mrs. Lafferty has served as a substitute and volunteer teacher in several capacities including for Chesterfield County Public Schools and Bright Spots. Random fact: In 2001, Mrs. Lafferty and her husband quit their jobs in Chicago and volunteered to teach English for a year in Iquique, Chile. I am so encouraged when students show evidence of applying learning strategies to achieve their personal goals. My desire is to foster their confidence and sharpen their skills so they are fully equipped to move forward and live out their purpose to the fullest.
Professional background: Mrs. Pruitt previously taught fourth and fifth grades at The Steward School, and has extensive experience substitute teaching. Random fact: Mrs. Pruitt is a selfprofessed game geek — she loves games of any kind including board games, card games, sports, etc. As a mom of kids who have benefitted from tutoring for years, I’m so thankful to be able to give back in the same way. Tutoring is a unique opportunity to truly connect with a student, learn their interests, and help them to gain confidence and skills at the same time.
Professional background: Mr. Dacey previously taught at Goochland High School for 27 years. He primarily tutors Middle and Upper School students in Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. Random fact: Mr. Dacey is a professional musician and has played shows up and down the east coast for many years. My favorite part about tutoring is when a student comes in at the beginning of the hour saying things like, 'I'm so confused,' or 'I have no idea what I'm doing,' and they leave saying, 'I totally get this.' That is an awesome feeling.
