³ΙΘΛΏμ²₯

research-backed

From regular student assessment to contracting for independent studies, ³ΙΘΛΏμ²₯ systematically collects, analyzes, and uses data to generate knowledge, improve programs, and report on impacts.

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science of reading

The established and growing research we have about how students learn to read, including systemic phonics education.

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individualized

A facet of high-dosage tutoring in which a tutor offers personalized attention to their student, resulting in targeted support, and personalized literacy learning.

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high-dosage

The frequency of a learning experience. For example, ³ΙΘΛΏμ²₯ students receive twice weekly tutoring for maximum growth.

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educational equity

Ensuring every student, no matter their race, gender, socioeconomic level, or location has access to the resources and support they need to succeed in school and in life.

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online tutoring
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Behind the scenes of ³ΙΘΛΏμ²₯’ distance tutoring platform

January 5, 2021

by Kelsey Larsen

Development Operations Manager

An innovative solution

With the unexpected changes brought on by COVID-19, many schools across the country transitioned their in-person classrooms to virtual spaces. In response, ³ΙΘΛΏμ²₯ quickly adjusted our program to support students and their families as they continue their school year with distance learning by launching online literacy tutoring.

The ³ΙΘΛΏμ²₯ Connects online tutoring platform, allows volunteers and AmeriCorps members to tutor students virtually using ³ΙΘΛΏμ²₯’ evidence-based curriculum. Together, in the comfort of their own homes, students and tutors work through content that integrates trusted curriculum skills and lessons into interactive presentations. We are thrilled to provide this solution as a way to continue supporting students in communities practicing distance learning.

distance tutoring

Behind the scenes

Much like our traditional program, ³ΙΘΛΏμ²₯ Connects provides students with one-on-one tutoring, but in a virtual setting – no commuting needed. To ensure tutors feel comfortable with the new online tutoring platform, our volunteer training process now includes two orientations instead of one. During the orientation process, volunteers are supported by four hours of training covering all aspects of our new platform, from technology use to curriculum examples. After both orientations have been completed, volunteers can participate in office hours with our staff to practice using the online platform and prepare for their first session.

Before tutors begin their first session, a full-time site coordinator will reach out, providing all materials and links needed for the session. During the first session with the student, a site coordinator or another staff member will sit in to ensure that everyone is able to use the technology okay and has the chance to meet each other – we love seeing students’ faces again! After that, they will always log in 10-15 minutes before the lesson to make sure the tutor is there, and then will do another check to see that the student is there.

Until we can return to the classroom, ³ΙΘΛΏμ²₯ Connects provides the moments that make us smile – seeing a student’s face when they master a new skill, practicing a fun dance move during a β€œbrain break”, and most of all, reading together.

distance tutoring

Working together to empower students

By December 2020, volunteer reading partners provided nearly 10,000 virtual tutoring sessions to students across 12 regions in the US. In addition to support from students’ families and school communities, our new ³ΙΘΛΏμ²₯ Connects programming would not be possible without the dedicated work of our AmeriCorps members. AmeriCorps members supporting ³ΙΘΛΏμ²₯ Connects serve as the lead for family, student, and volunteer engagement, ensuring everyone is equipped to attend and successfully complete their sessions online. They coach tutors, support families, observe distance tutoring sessions, and maintain data systems related to distance tutoring.

³ΙΘΛΏμ²₯ moved quickly to ensure volunteers feel confident and comfortable using ³ΙΘΛΏμ²₯ Connects. The dedicated training volunteers receive as well as the innovative programming for students would not be possible without the generous support of our community. This holiday season, your support will ensure students can continue to receive individualized literacy tutoring no matter where they are learning.

distance tutoring

Take action

Tutoring through ³ΙΘΛΏμ²₯ Connects is easy, rewarding, and has a huge impact on the life of a young reader. or to help us in our continued effort to bring data-driven literacy tutoring to students throughout the country.

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