Keik
I had been busy working with a tutoree, guiding them through complex algebra problems. The room was filled with the soft murmur of my patient explanations and the rustle of papers. My phone buzzed on the desk, interrupting the focused atmosphere.
I glanced at the screen, noticing an unfamiliar number. Setting aside the current problem, I answered the call with a practiced calm.
“Hello, this is Keik speaking.”
“Hi Mrs. Delgado,” a voice on the other end said. “I’m calling to inquire about your tutoring services. I heard you might be able to help with history.”
My interest was caught. “Yes, I do offer tutoring in history as well. May I ask who I’m speaking with?”
“This is Michaela Del Rio. My son, Jack is struggling with his history class. We’re looking for someone who can offer some additional help.”
“I see,” I responded thoughtfully. “Tell me a bit more about Jack’s situation.”
Michaela sighed. “He’s been having a tough time understanding the material and his grades have been slipping. We’re hoping a bit of extra support might turn things around.”
“I’d be happy to help,” I said reassuringly. “Why don’t we schedule a meeting to discuss his needs in more detail and see how we can best support him?”
“That sounds great,” she agreed. “Could Jack come by on Thursday after class? That would work best for us.”
“Thursday after class should be fine,” I confirmed. “What time would be convenient for him?”
“Let’s say around 4 PM?” Mrs. Del Rio suggested.
“4 PM works perfectly,” I replied. “I’ll see Jack then.”
“Thank you for fitting us into your schedule,” she said. “I appreciate it.”
“Of course,” I said warmly. “I look forward to meeting Jack and getting started.”
We exchanged goodbyes, and I returned to my tutoree, my mind already turning over the new challenge ahead.
After ending the call, I glanced at the clock and then back at the tutoree, who was still diligently working through their algebra problems. I mentally prepared for the upcoming session with Jack Del Rio. I had a sense that this new tutoring engagement might be quite different from my usual sessions.
I spent a few minutes jotting down some ideas on how I could approach Jack’s history tutoring. As I reviewed the materials I had, I considered how best to address any potential gaps in his understanding and how to make the sessions engaging and effective for him.
When my current tutoree finished their session, I made a few notes on their progress and then tidied up the workspace. I took a moment to reflect on the upcoming meeting with Jack. I hoped that my approach would be able to make a real difference for him, as it had for so many others before.
**
It’s Thursday afternoon, and I’m eagerly waiting for Jack. I’ve set up my desk with notebooks and pens, making sure everything is in order. The aroma of fresh coffee fills the room, and I glance at the clock—almost 4 PM. I hope Jack is feeling a bit more at ease as he arrives.
The doorbell rings, and I quickly make my way to answer it. When I open the door, Jack is standing there with my daughter, Nalina. Jack looks slightly anxious, and Nalina’s presence seems to be a comforting factor for him.
“Hi, Jack. I’m Mrs. Delgado,” I say, extending my hand with a welcoming smile. “It’s nice to meet you.”
Jack takes my hand and shakes it firmly. “Hi, Mrs. Delgado. My mom couldn’t make it today. I was hoping Nalina could stay with me during the session.”
I glance at Nalina, who gives a small nod. “That’s perfectly fine, Jack. Nalina can stay with us. Let’s head inside.”
Jack visibly relaxes a bit as he follows me into the study area. I can see he’s relieved to have Nalina there, which makes me more determined to make this session productive.
Once we’re settled, I turn to Jack. “So, Jack, tell me what you’re struggling with in history. What topics are giving you the most trouble?”
Jack fidgets with his notebook. “It’s mostly the events leading up to World War II. I’m having a hard time keeping all the dates and figures straight.”
I nod, understanding his frustration. “That’s a complex period with a lot of details. How about we start with a brief overview of the main events? It might help to simplify things.”
Nalina looks up from her book. “Mom, could you maybe use a timeline or something? That always helped me with my history.”
“That’s a great idea, Nalina,” I say, smiling at her. “Jack, we can create a timeline together. It should help visualize the sequence of events.”
Jack’s face brightens a bit. “That sounds helpful. Thanks, Mrs. Delgado.”
As we start working on the timeline, I occasionally glance at Nalina, who’s quietly reading but seems engaged. Jack and I discuss various historical figures and events, and I make sure to break down complex concepts into simpler terms.
After a while, Jack looks more confident. “This timeline really helps. I can see how the events connect now.”
I smile, pleased with his progress. “I’m glad to hear that. Remember, understanding the context of events is key to remembering the details. Does anything else feel unclear?”
Jack shakes his head. “No, I think this is really helping. I feel a lot better about the material.”
Nalina closes her book and looks at Jack. “See, I knew you’d get it. History isn’t so bad once you get the hang of it.”
Jack laughs, a bit more relaxed now. “Thanks, Nalina. I really appreciate your help too.”
I look at both of them and feel a sense of accomplishment. “You both did great today. Jack, you’ve made a lot of progress. Keep reviewing the timeline and let me know if you need more help.”
Jack nods, smiling. “I will. Thanks again, Mrs. Delgado.”
“No problem,” I reply warmly. “I’m looking forward to our next session.”
As they leave, I feel hopeful about Jack’s progress and grateful for Nalina’s support.
YOU ARE READING
Ephemeral
General FictionStruggling in history class, Jack gets help from Mrs. Delgado, who shares her mother's harrowing Holocaust story. This profound connection helps Jack improve his grades and understanding of history. As he prepares to share his insights, he must conf...
