Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who have experience working with students with learning differences and understand how to modify instruction accordingly. When you describe your student's specific needs—whether it's reading support, math intervention, or executive function coaching—we match you with someone trained in evidence-based strategies for that particular challenge.

The first session is typically an assessment and relationship-building opportunity. The tutor will learn about your student's learning style, strengths, challenges, and academic goals. They'll ask about any formal evaluations or diagnoses, current classroom struggles, and what strategies have worked in the past—this information helps them design a personalized approach for future sessions.

In a classroom with a 15.7:1 student-teacher ratio like Colorado Springs averages, teachers can't individualize instruction for each learning style. Tutors work 1-on-1, adjusting pace, breaking down complex concepts, repeating explanations in different ways, and using specialized techniques (like multisensory reading approaches or visual math strategies) that directly address how your student learns best.

Good tutors track progress through regular check-ins, skill assessments, and observable improvements in classroom performance. You might see gains in reading fluency, math accuracy, test scores, homework completion, or confidence—depending on your student's goals. Discussing progress milestones with your tutor at the start helps you both stay focused on meaningful outcomes.

Yes. Tutors can reinforce strategies outlined in your student's 504 plan or IEP and help build skills in areas where your student needs extra support. While tutors don't write formal plans, they can complement school-based services by providing intensive, targeted practice and using accommodation strategies (like extended time, visual supports, or chunked instruction) that align with what your student receives at school.

Reading and math are the most common focus areas, since learning differences often impact literacy and numeracy skills. However, tutors also help with writing, study skills, organization, test preparation, and subject-specific content across all grade levels. The best approach depends on where your student struggles most and what will have the biggest impact on their academic success.

Start by sharing your student's learning profile—their age, grade, specific challenges, and goals—so Varsity Tutors can connect you with a qualified tutor. Most students have their first session within a week, and you can adjust the schedule and focus as you go. The process is flexible, so you can start with a few sessions to see if it's a good fit.