Megan Lawson - Tutor

More than a decade ago, Megan Lawson, a retired educator, joined the Street School Board. Over the years, she has worn many hats, from event planning to working in the development office, but tutoring has been her most rewarding experience. Working one-on-one with students allows her to connect with students personally, support their learning, and witness their progress firsthand. Megan primarily tutors English, reading, and comprehension—just don’t ask her to help with math! Many students she works with have been promoted without fully grasping fundamental skills. She breaks concepts into manageable pieces, helping them build understanding and confidence step by step. The best teaching tool she has found is encouragement. Many students have faced setbacks, and sometimes, all they need is someone to remind them that they are capable. By focusing on their strengths, she helps them develop self-assurance, and once they believe in themselves, nothing can hold them back.

For Megan, tutoring is about more than academics—it’s about trust and connection. She loves hearing students’ stories, seeing pictures of their families, celebrating their successes, and seeing how a diploma transforms their lives, whether they plan to enter the workforce, college, or the military. Volunteering at the Street School has given Megan as much as she has given to the students. She believes the students are the most welcoming, grateful, warm people around. They want to be there and are a pleasure to teach. She especially enjoys seeing the students grasp a lesson or concept that had previously stumped them. According to Megan, “Watching them ‘get it’ is such a gift! I also love being with young people who can certainly teach me a thing or two and keep me current.” For those considering volunteering, Megan says, “Don’t be afraid to tutor. There is lots of support for tutors, and the students are genuinely excited to work with tutors. If tutoring is not your gift, there are many other ways to get involved, from leading a club to providing lunch. The students are always excited to see volunteers.” Walking through the doors of the Street School, you’ll immediately feel the warmth of the community—and once you experience it, you’ll want to be part of it, just like Megan did.