Seniors can get paid to tutor

Senior citizens wanting to lend a hand and pad a pocket now have an opportunity to do both.

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The Senior Citizens Council is seeking people age 60 and older to work with children in a tutoring program in area schools throughout the school year.

Working with the Head Start program, seniors will receive a stipend for helping children in kindergarten through third grade improve their reading skills.

Jackie Kennedy, a spokeswoman for the council, said Head Start gives children an opportunity to increase their reading aptitude so it is on par with other children their age.

"They're reading to kids, listening to them read," she said. "We're trying to get them back on track by the third grade."

About eight to 10 seniors are wanted for the program. Kennedy said she is not only looking for former teachers, but seniors from all walks of life.

"We're looking for anyone willing to help," she said.

Those interested are urged to apply immediately so that pre-employment procedures can be done before Columbia County schools open Aug. 13.

Seniors will be paid about $2.65 per hour and are asked to work 15-20 hours per week. Kennedy said those wishing to work more hours are free to do so, and that they could earn about $250-400 a month, tax-free.

Applicants must be 60 or older because of the tax exemption.

For more information, contact Kennedy at (706) 826-4480.