Founded in 2010, the Writing Center has experienced a dramatic increase in attendance in just a few months of operation.
The program, an after-school tutoring service for students who need help on essay writing, caters to students who would like feedback on essays or need assistance in brainstorming.
Inspired by the Writing Center at his university, English teacher James Macindoe’s early attempts to organize the workshop were more difficult than expected. Then-student Talley Murphy encouraged Macindoe to keep the program running in hopes of improving efficiency and dependability. It was not until 2012 that the center was in better condition.
This year, the workshop has become overpopulated. Last year, the tutors held a total of 286 sessions with students, while this year there has been 198 sessions in just one month.
The sudden spike in Writing Center attendance is attributable in part to History teacher Dean Wood’s involvement in the program and co-sponsorship with Macindoe since 2012.
“Honestly I think that partnering with the History department is the best thing the Writing Center has done because it makes us less exclusive,” said Macindoe.
In addition to higher student attendance, more tutors have been signing up as well. There are 34 tutors in total this year compared to last year’s 10.
“I say it every day, but honestly I’m astounded by how smart, kind and effective our peer tutors are,” said Macindoe. “They like to help people.”