Tutorial Program

Inwood Academic Tutoring is our Church’s after-school tutorial program that serves elementary, middle, and high school students from the neighborhood.

Now in its 15th year, this program was started by the Rev. Dr. Luther ‘Luke’ Kriefall during his chaplaincy at Columbia University under the auspices of Lutheran Ministries in Higher Education.  Luke, following his retirement from active ministry in 2004, would join the volunteer tutors at the University campus every Friday in all kinds of weather on the 15-minute ride on the #1 train uptown to our Church, and at times would also assist students with their work.

Our tutors from Columbia University dedicate time and resources in giving back to the community.  In many ways, they are also mentors to those who sit with them during the weekly program. They certainly inspire the students who come to receive the help that they need in the various subject areas to do well and to strive to overcome the many challenges that they encounter in their learning in the classroom and elsewhere.   Rebecca Gibson, a B.A. undergrad in Environmental Biology (2014), is the Head Tutor and has been successful in recruiting her peers to join this most noble and selfless team of youths in meeting a great need in the Inwood/Washington Heights community.  Other tutors include: Zoe, Serena, Juan, Joe, Robyn, Anna, Betsy, Rebecca, Riaz, Tommy, and Ligner.  This academic year we have twice as many tutors…as well as students.  Great youths they are!  Maria Liggio is the Parent Coordinator and is ably assisted by Jackie Gutierrez – two very dedicated mothers who are integral to the success of this program and interface with the teachers of the students who come every week.
Friday Tutoring session starts at 5 pm and lasts for just under two hours.

We will also endeavor to add a new dimension to our program that will allow for educational and recreational trips to places of interest.  We welcome the support of parents in any way and would love to have a feed back on progress of students.

If you would like know more about this program please call or send email to our office.  You may also make a financial contribution in support of this program;  send Check or Money Order payable to Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. Matthew (aka St. Matthew Lutheran Church) and indicate Tutorial Program on memo line.   A tax deductible letter will be issued to all donors.

Click to see pictures.