Certified Reading Intervention tutors work with students to build foundational reading skills through personalized 1-on-1 instruction tailored to each student's specific needs. Whether your child struggles with decoding words, reading fluency, comprehension, or confidence, intervention tutors use research-based techniques and frequent progress monitoring to help students catch up and build momentum. With Charleston's average student-teacher ratio of 13.9:1 in classrooms, personalized tutoring provides the focused attention many struggling readers need to make meaningful progress.

A typical session begins with targeted instruction on specific reading skills—such as phonics, sight words, fluency, or comprehension strategies—using evidence-based methods and materials. The tutor provides guided practice with immediate feedback, helps the student apply new skills to connected text, and monitors progress through regular assessments. Sessions are structured to build confidence and independence, with tutors adjusting the pace and focus based on how the student is responding to instruction.

Tutors specializing in Certified Reading Intervention have formal training in literacy science and evidence-based intervention approaches, often holding certifications such as Orton-Gillingham, LETRS, or similar reading intervention credentials. Many have backgrounds in special education, elementary education, or speech-language pathology. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who have demonstrated expertise in diagnosing and treating reading difficulties and can provide the specialized instruction your student needs.

Reading progress depends on the severity of the difficulty and the frequency of tutoring, but many students begin showing measurable improvements in fluency, decoding, or comprehension within 4-6 weeks of consistent, targeted intervention. More significant gains in overall reading level typically develop over a longer period—often 2-3 months or more—as foundational skills strengthen and students build confidence. Regular progress monitoring helps tutors adjust instruction to keep students moving forward.

Tutors use a variety of research-backed comprehension strategies including pre-reading activation of background knowledge, guided questioning during reading, summarization techniques, and explicit instruction in understanding text structure and main ideas. They help students learn to monitor their own understanding and use fix-up strategies when comprehension breaks down. Many also incorporate think-aloud modeling, where the tutor demonstrates how skilled readers approach challenging text, helping students internalize these strategies for independent reading.

The first session typically includes an assessment or screening to understand your student's current reading level, strengths, and areas of difficulty. The tutor will ask questions about reading history, any previous interventions, and your goals for tutoring. You can expect the tutor to explain their approach, discuss what they've observed, and outline a preliminary plan for instruction—though the full personalized plan often develops after a session or two as the tutor gathers more detailed information about your student's needs.

Tutoring rates vary based on the tutor's qualifications, experience, and the specific needs of your student, but Varsity Tutors works with tutors across a range of price points to fit different budgets. Many families find that investing in specialized reading intervention early prevents larger academic gaps later on. When you connect with a tutor, you can discuss rates, session frequency, and package options to find an arrangement that works for your family.