The Tutoring Partnership for Academic Excellence

Our children need to be reading at grade level by 3rd grade and achieve proficiency in algebra by 8th grade to be prepared for success in school and life. Every day high-quality volunteer tutors help students in Saint Paul Public Schools learn to read and excel in math.

“If I can make one little light bulb go on, for just one child struggling with math, then I know I’ve made a difference.” Joyce Lewis, tutor at Battle Creek Middle School

Tutoring is Needed

In St. Paul, test scores reveal an achievement gap with over 80% of Caucasian students testing proficient and less than 50% of students of color testing proficient in reading and math. There are still thousands of students who could benefit from volunteer tutoring to increase proficiency in reading and math.

“There are so many kids and just one of me. The tutors are a great help. This kind of regular adult contact shows our students that somebody really cares about them.” Melody Haines, teacher at Crossroads Elementary

Tutoring Works!

Studies show that high-quality tutoring is an effective complement to great teaching. According to Superintendent Valeria Silva, “tutoring implemented with best practices helps improve student achievement and success.” A 2010 study showed that third grade Saint Paul Public School students who received literacy tutoring outperformed students that did not receive tutoring: low-performing students (22% greater growth), English learners (27% greater growth), and students in poverty (22% greater growth).

“You are a great tutor. Thank you for helping me read.” Brong, 3rd grade student

The Tutoring Partnership for Academic Excellence

The Saint Paul Public Schools Foundation is a non-profit organization made up of business, education, and community leaders committed to academic excellence and success. Currently, 6,500 students are being tutored in 30 organizations and 41 schools by over 2,000 tutors through the Foundation’s Tutoring Partnership for Academic Excellence. The Foundation was the winner of the 2010 Deubener Award from the Saint Paul Chamber of Commerce for exemplifying growth, excellence, risk, and innovation.

“The Foundation is playing an important role in our community, building effective programs and partnerships in support of academic success.” Matt Kramer, President, Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce

Why Give Now?

Double your gift: a Matching grant is available through the Bremer Foundation.

“My wife and I have tutored and we donate to the Tutoring Partnership because it is giving students the chance they need to succeed.” Brock Nelson, President, Regions Hospital