826 Valencia Celebrates DAVID BROWNELL -- recipient of our very first Tutor of the Month award! What makes David such a phenomenal addition to our volunteer crew? What is the story behind this exceptional tutor? Read on!

According to David, “Tutoring at 826 is my investment in the future.” David comes from a long line of teachers including his great grandfather, grandfather and grandmother. Some of David’s outstanding accomplishments -- which have contributed to his stellar tutoring and people-skills -- include a Ph.D. in English and American literature, stage-managing and producing plays, acting on the Board of Directors for a daycare center, being a landlord in the Mission for 30 years, working as a textbook editor, copyediting for a magazine, and raising a now 28-year-old daughter.

David is clearly exceptional when it comes to working with 826 students. He tutors twice a week, every week, and the students lobby to work with him, requesting his help as soon as they walk in the door. He often tutors two or three students at once, in a variety of subjects. He is always adaptable and constantly finds a way to say yes to our ever-changing requests. He walks in with a smile on his face and always has extra books and games in his bag, which the students use when they finish with their homework.

As our first Volunteer of the Month, we asked David to offer some sage advice on tutoring:

“Listen to what kids say, and try to hear what they truly mean,” he said. “Be interested in them and enjoy their individuality. Never make fun of them and never lie to them. And respect their ideas.”

David Brownell, 826 Valencia applauds you and thanks you for all your hard work and dedication! Hooray!

Written by Michelle Quint and Jory John