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the tutoring initiative that can rewrite flordia's reading story

Florida’s reading crisis is urgent—100,000 students behind in every grade, with gaps appearing by kindergarten. What if the answer isn’t a new curriculum or costly program, but a movement powered by students themselves? Imagine high schoolers, trained and supported, stepping into elementary school classrooms to deliver daily, high-impact tutoring to their youngest peers. This bold, scalable idea doesn’t just boost early literacy and help children catch up before they fall hopefully behind; it builds leaders, strengthens communities, and reimagines what’s possible when students help students succeed.

Why it matters.

Across Florida, too many students are struggling to recover learning lost during the pandemic and beyond. Research shows that consistent, high-quality tutoring is one of the most effective interventions available — especially when it’s:

  • Targeted to specific learning needs

  • Frequent (at least three times a week)

  • Aligned with classroom instruction

  • Delivered by trained, supported educators

 

The Tutoring Initiative brings all of these elements together in one coordinated framework.

key features.

  • Evidence-Based Model — Designed from leading national and state research on effective tutoring practices.

  • Embedded in the School Day — Integrates tutoring directly into students’ schedules for maximum impact.

  • Data-Driven Progress Monitoring — Uses assessment data to tailor sessions and track growth.

  • Tutor Training & Support — Ensures tutors have the tools, feedback, and coaching needed to succeed.

  • Sustainable Funding Pathways — Builds capacity for districts to maintain programs long-term.

How it works.

  1. Identify Student Needs — Partner schools use diagnostic data to pinpoint priority learners.

  2. Recruit & Train Tutors — Tutors complete a research-backed training program focused on targeted instruction.

  3. Match & Schedule — Students are matched with consistent tutors for sessions integrated into their regular day.

  4. Monitor & Adjust — Progress is reviewed regularly to refine instruction and maximize outcomes.

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