A homebound tutor works directly with the classroom teacher to determine the student's course of study for the given time period. In some cases, only core classes -- rather than electives -- are taught. The curriculum is based on required state standards. The tutor should secure a copy of the standards, as they often include suggested activities. She will need to get copies of student text books, pertinent materials and teacher's guides. Some teachers offer the tutor copies of class lecture notes. If a student previously received special education services, his individualized education plan (IEP) must be taken into consideration. The tutor develops a pacing calendar for each subject area to meet the program goals.
Lessons should parallel what's being taught in the classroom. Since the tutor works with a single student, she may cover material at a quicker rate. In that case, she generally goes into more depth; supplementary resources are available online or from the student's teacher. She must also review concepts in which the student or his parents indicate a weakness. Teachers expect homebound tutors to prepare students for tests and quizzes. This includes a thorough review of the content. The homebound tutor encounters children with various physical and emotional challenges, and she must adapt lessons to accommodate these challenges. Occasionally, tutors arrange for students to participate with their classmates via webcam.
A homebound tutor keeps the lines of communication open among school administrators, parents, counselors and teachers. She often uses email to regularly communicate with the student's teachers. The tutor must set up an initial meeting with the parents and arrange a schedule of instruction sessions. An adult, other than the tutor, must be present at each tutoring session. If a tutor suspects problems or encounters an unusual situation, he reports it to the homebound tutoring director. The tutor contacts the school if the student has excessive, questionable absences. The parent and doctor determine when the child can return to the regular school setting, and the homebound teacher relays this information to school personnel.
Tutors are usually required to submit weekly written progress reports to school personnel. The reports include an outline of the material that has been covered and assessment notes on the student's progress. The tutor typically grades the homebound student's homework, worksheets and tests. Tutors must meet deadlines for submitting mid-term exam grades and report cards. The classroom teacher ultimately calculates the student's grades. However, she meets with the tutor to obtain input. When the tutor submits grades, the teacher incorporates them at her own discretion.