Blue Ridge School has officially launched its Peer Tutoring Program, opening the door to new opportunities for students to learn from one another while deepening the spirit of brotherhood and academic excellence. Led by Alex Deitrich, Assistant Director of College Counseling, and Dr. Dedra Demaree, Science Department Chair, the program has already engaged 30 student tutors in its inaugural year. The peer tutoring program pairs boys seeking extra support in a wide variety of subjects with peers who have demonstrated both strong academic skills and leadership. More than just reinforcing classroom learning, the new initiative fosters responsibility, confidence, and collaboration empowering students to grow together.
Tutors undergo extensive training to prepare them for their roles, focusing on active listening, effective questioning, and strategies for encouraging learning rather than simply providing answers. Meanwhile, students who participate in tutoring, benefit from individualized attention, study strategies, and the chance to work alongside someone who understands the challenges of balancing academics, athletics, and residential life at BRS.
Amber Wilkins, Assistant Head of School for Instructional Programs says the following about the new program,“The program reflects the very heart of Blue Ridge School’s mission and values. When our students step up to tutor their peers, they are living out the principles we hold dear on this campus supporting one another, celebrating each other’s strengths, and ensuring that no one has to face challenges alone.”
Students have already begun attending sessions, and faculty members are optimistic about the positive ripple effect peer tutoring will have across campus.
As one student tutor put it: “Helping someone else succeed feels just as rewarding as doing well on my own. I feel proud knowing I can make a difference, and it motivates me to keep pushing myself, too.”
The Peer Tutoring Program will run throughout the academic year, with ongoing opportunities for new students to join as either a tutor or a participant.
The full list of Peer Tutors:
Valentin Asmus
Richard Bonilla Ortega
Brandon Busche
Jorge Cagigas Hondal
Zyir Cayasso
Nino Cerdan
Nunior Chandravat
Titus Doan
Chase Green
Justin Huang
Elliott Jones
Hamin Kim
Milan Tomich
Wyatt Turner
Mark Blandford
Yariel Cruz
Zander Flint
Naoki Kanaya
Cohen Lemke
Theo Manuel
Dayo Matsinhe
Carter Reynolds
Joey Scullion
James Ye
Enzo Kalimba
Maximilian Chappell
James ‘Jimmy’ Cluff
Eduardo Parra
Alexander Gage Llado
Odisseu Botnari
