Illinois Tutoring Initiative
Building confident learners through high-impact tutoring
Become a part of the Illinois Tutoring Initiative — a bold vision for supporting student learning and social-emotional health in the wake of the pandemic. With a focus on collaboration and high-impact tutoring, we're changing lives and building futures.
“I love coming to tutoring. It is one of my favorite parts of the day because I know I will get to have fun while learning new things. It has helped me read and write better. I am also able to do more work in class by myself, which makes me feel proud of myself.”
Angelo, Cahokia Penniman Elementary
Equity, Safety, Cohesion
Why high-impact tutoring?
Based on its solid research foundation, the Initiative utilizes the high-impact model to deliver tutoring across the state. According to the National Student Support Accelerator, “Rigorous research shows that High-Impact Tutoring is unusually effective for accelerating student learning.
In fact, it is more effective than other interventions that have been tested and is effective across grade and content levels.” High-impact tutoring is based on the foundational elements of equity, safety, and cohesion and features:
ILLINOIS’ NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED
TUTORING PROGRAM POINTS TO STRONG RECOVERY FROM THE PANDEMIC
Illinois stands out as a pioneer in education recovery, achieving full English Language Arts (ELA) recovery amid pandemic disruptions. This accomplishment reflects the state's commitment to academic excellence and targeted strategies supporting student growth. Through collaboration among educators, administrators, policymakers, and communities, Illinois has forged a successful path forward, serving as a model for others. By prioritizing student needs and innovation, Illinois emerges stronger, shaping a brighter future for all.
High-Quality, High-Dosage Tutoring
Academic Excellence Amplified
Recognized by the White House
We are PROUD to share that the Biden-Harris administration recently recognized the ITI for our high-impact tutoring efforts for students impacted by the pandemic. We are identified as having a high-quality, high-dosage tutoring program suggesting it is a successful strategy worth replicating elsewhere.
Christy Borders and WGLT
Our very own Executive Director, Christy Borders, sat down with WGLT to share the positive impact our program has had on high-impact tutoring in school districts throughout the state. The Illinois Tutoring Initiative's data has proved that our unique approach to high-impact tutoring is working.
Listen to the full interview with Christy Borders
"Weathering the Storm”: Federal Efforts Helped Bolster U.S. Education Standing Among Peer Nations
DECEMBER 05, 2023
The OECD released international testing data from the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). The PISA measures 15-year-olds’ performance in math, science, and reading worldwide every three years.[1] The previous assessment was done in 2018, and the recent release was conducted in 2022–allowing for an examination of COVID’s impact on students and of global recovery efforts.
A COVID-era tutoring initiative worked with thousands of Illinois students. Will it continue?
A statewide tutoring initiative with a tie to Illinois State University has produced demonstrable results in reading and math for students in the past two years, but its status as a COVID-era program funded by pandemic relief money leaves its future uncertain. Since the 2022-23 academic school year, the Illinois Tutoring Initiative [ITI] has brought more than 83,000 hours of what’s called high-impact tutoring to over 6,000 students across the state.
Incredible Impact
The numbers speak for themselves
The Illinois Tutoring initiative supports the learning and social/emotional well-being of students in the wake of the pandemic by building confident learners through high-impact tutoring. Tutoring is available in-person for reading and math for students in grades 3-8. Online math tutoring is available for high school students.
"The other day, I got some great news from one of my students, Annabelle. She had a wonderful day at school! When I asked her why, she said that when she raised her hand in class, she got called on twice and got all the answers right. Though to some, this may seem like a small thing to do, this is a huge stride for Annabelle! She even moved up a reading group. I'm just so proud of her and think she truly deserves the world!"
Kira B, Tutor at Murphysboro Carruthers
Testimonials
Be a part of life-changing impact
ITI Insights
What's New?
Student and tutor outcomes report for AY23
Exciting News! Check out the latest report on how our tutoring program in Illinois has helped students and tutors in the academic year 23! Thanks to everyone's dedication and hard work, we've achieved fantastic results! Let's celebrate our success and continue making a difference together!
Our September newsletter is live!
Join us in celebrating educational milestones, exploring the rich tapestry of resources, and applauding the joyful experiences of our tutoring events, as detailed in our vibrant September newsletter, symbolizing our persistent stride towards academic excellence.
Discover iSpire!
Dive into iSpire, your path to academic success! Make use of enriching resources and enhance your tutoring sessions. Join us in our commitment to educational excellence and the pursuit of brighter futures.
Apply Today
Join us in shaping futures
Become a part of the Illinois Tutoring Initiative and play a crucial role in shaping the future of education, empowering students, and making a lasting difference in our community.