There’s a famous quote by the educational theorist Thomas Carruthers that says: "A teacher is one who makes himself progressively unnecessary."
At first glance, that sounds a little scary for a tutor, doesn’t it? If we are successful, our "customers" leave us! But in the world of education, that is actually the highest compliment you can receive. It means you didn’t just give them the answers; you gave them the tools.
If you are a new tutor—whether you’re a recent grad or a parent sharing your expertise—here is how to embrace the "Art of Disappearing."
1. Don’t Be a Crutch; Be a Coach
It is so tempting to sit down with a student and just help them finish their homework so they can get an 'A.' But if they can only get that 'A' when you’re sitting there, they haven't truly mastered the material.
Instead of being the person who gives the answer, be the person who shows them where the answer lives.
- Use the OpenStax Writing Guide index together to find a citation rule.
- Show them how to navigate a Core Knowledge glossary.
- Eventually, stop opening the book for them. Let them find it. That is the "progressive" part of becoming unnecessary.
2. You’re Part of a Bigger Team
Remember, you aren't a lone wolf. You are a supplement to the parent (the primary educator) and the classroom teacher.
One of the best ways to gain perspective on this is to try substitute teaching. It gives you a "behind the scenes" look at how teachers work to build independence in a room of 30 kids. It’s also a great way to earn extra income and build your reputation. You’ll quickly see that the students who thrive are the ones who have learned how to learn—and that’s exactly what you’re helping them do in your 1-on-1 sessions.
3. Every Tutor is a "Limited Edition"
You might see other tutors who have more experience or fancy certifications and feel like you’re falling short. Don't compare your Chapter 1 to someone else’s Chapter 20.
Carruthers’ philosophy applies to you, too! You are learning to become a better teacher every day. Find a mentor—someone who has been tutoring for years—and ask them how they handle the "graduation" of a student. You’ll find that every tutor has a unique style. Your specific way of explaining Astronomy or Numeracy might be the one thing that finally clicks for a student who has struggled for years.
4. The Magic of Word-of-Mouth
You might worry: "If I make myself unnecessary, won't I run out of work?" It’s actually the opposite! When a parent sees their child go from struggling and frustrated to confident and independent, they won't just thank you—they will tell everyone they know.
The student’s feedback and their actual progress are your best marketing tools. When you "graduate" a student, you'll often find that their classmates, siblings, and neighbors are suddenly lining up to work with you. You aren't losing a client; you’re gaining a legacy.
Final Thoughts
Next time you’re in a session, ask yourself: "Am I doing something for them that they could eventually do for themselves?" If you can find one small way to step back and let them take the lead, you’re doing exactly what Carruthers envisioned. You’re turning a student into a scholar.