Students often fall behind when classroom instruction is disrupted by substitute teachers, who may not be familiar with the curriculum or the student's learning style. Additionally, some students struggle with the inconsistency in teaching methods or miss key explanations during these transitions. Personalized tutoring helps students regain confidence, clarify misunderstood concepts, and maintain consistent progress regardless of classroom staffing changes.

During the first session, a tutor will assess your student's current understanding of the material, identify specific gaps or challenges, and learn about their learning style and goals. This personalized evaluation helps the tutor create a targeted plan to address missed concepts and build a strong foundation. The tutor will also establish a comfortable learning environment where your student feels confident asking questions.

Tutors work with your student's specific textbooks, assignments, and grade-level standards to ensure instruction matches what's being taught in the classroom. Before each session, you can share materials from your student's school—lesson plans, worksheets, or notes from substitute teachers—so the tutor can provide targeted support. This alignment ensures your student is learning exactly what they need to succeed in their classes.

The timeline depends on how much material was missed and how quickly your student grasps the concepts. Some students catch up in 2-3 sessions, while others benefit from ongoing support to build deeper understanding. Regular, consistent tutoring sessions—typically 1-2 per week—help students regain confidence and stay current with classroom instruction.

In a classroom with 17-18 students per teacher, individual learning needs can be overlooked. Personalized 1-on-1 tutoring allows a tutor to adjust pacing, teaching methods, and explanations to match your student's specific learning style and needs. This focused attention helps students ask questions freely, work through confusion immediately, and build mastery at their own pace—something that's difficult in a group setting.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who understand your student's specific needs and curriculum. You can describe the material your student needs help with, and we'll match them with a tutor experienced in that subject and grade level. The process is simple, and you can get started quickly to help your student catch up and stay on track.

You'll see progress through improved grades on assignments and tests, increased confidence in class participation, and better understanding of the material when discussing schoolwork at home. Many students also show improved homework completion and reduced frustration with their studies. Regular check-ins with the tutor help track specific improvements and adjust the tutoring plan as needed.