Students often struggle with phonemic awareness, word decoding, reading fluency, and comprehension—especially when foundational skills weren't solidly established. Many students also develop anxiety around reading, which can compound their difficulties. Personalized tutoring helps address both the technical skills and the confidence issues that hold students back, using evidence-based strategies like repeated reading, explicit phonics instruction, and guided comprehension practice.

The first session focuses on assessment and relationship-building. A tutor will work with your student to understand their current reading level, identify specific challenges, and learn about their interests and learning style. This information helps the tutor create a personalized plan that targets the skills your student needs most. You'll also discuss goals and what success looks like for your family.

Many students show noticeable progress in fluency and confidence within 4-6 weeks of consistent tutoring, though the timeline depends on the severity of the gap and how frequently your student receives instruction. More significant improvements in comprehension and independent reading typically develop over several months. Consistent practice between sessions—both with the tutor and at home—accelerates progress significantly.

Varsity Tutors connects students with tutors who have expertise in reading instruction, literacy development, and intervention strategies. Many have backgrounds in education, reading specialists training, or extensive tutoring experience with struggling readers. When you connect with a tutor, you can review their qualifications and experience to ensure they're the right fit for your student's specific needs.

Columbia's 7 school districts serve nearly 48,000 students with an average student-teacher ratio of 12.9:1, which means classroom teachers often have limited time for intensive one-on-one intervention. Personalized tutoring provides the additional, focused practice that accelerates progress beyond what's possible in the classroom alone. Many tutors coordinate with school teachers to ensure strategies align with what students are learning in class.

Consistent practice at home is one of the most powerful ways to accelerate reading growth. Your tutor will recommend specific activities—like repeated reading of familiar texts, word games, or guided reading practice—tailored to your student's level. Creating a positive reading environment, reading aloud together, and celebrating small wins also builds confidence and motivation, which are essential for struggling readers.

Contact Varsity Tutors to discuss your student's reading challenges and goals. You'll be matched with a tutor who has experience in reading intervention and understands your student's specific needs. From there, you can schedule your first session and begin working toward stronger reading skills and greater confidence.