Indiana bet big on tutoring for academic recovery. Will lawmakers save the programs when federal funds expire?

Chalkbeat

In-school tutoring is most effective, researchers say

When considering which programs to fund, Indiana should consider what research says about high-impact tutoring programs, said Nancy Waymack, director of research partnerships and policy for Stanford University’s National Student Support Accelerator, which provides resources for districts implementing tutoring programs.

High-impact tutoring is delivered one-on-one or in small groups by consistent and well-trained tutors. It happens during the school day up to five days a week, integrated with classroom instruction.

Indiana Learns requires parents to apply for the grant and then schedule and bring their children to lessons. The grant expanded in 2023 to allow tutoring during certain blocks of the school day, such as lunchtime, but it’s not clear how widespread that option is.

Putting the onus on parents is not ideal, researchers said.

“There are the pressures of everyday life and if something is at the top of the list and not this, it may get bumped down,” Waymack said. “We found it to be more effective when it’s part of the educational program, so students who need it have it.”

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