Deans for Impact Highlights Step Up Tutoring’s Innovative Approach to Growing their Tutor Community!
We're thrilled to announce that Deans for Impact, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving educator preparation, has spotlighted Step Up Tutoring! Their story showcases Step Up’s groundbreaking utilization of Federal Work-Study to support college students, particularly aspiring teachers, in becoming high-impact tutors for high-need students.
Who is Deans for Impact?
Deans for Impact is a collective of leaders from institutions across the nation committed to transforming educator preparation and elevating the teaching profession. One of their notable initiatives is the "Aspiring Teachers as Tutors Network," which aligns closely with Step Up Tutoring’s mission to provide high-quality tutoring while supporting the professional development of future educators.
A Close Look at Step Up's High-Impact Tutors
Recently, the Deans for Impact team traveled to Los Angeles to witness firsthand the high-impact tutoring work being done by Step Up Tutoring. They had the opportunity to meet with our staff, partners, and dedicated tutors, including those from esteemed institutions like Pepperdine and USC, to gain insights into our innovative tutoring model.
Unlocking Potential Through Federal Work-Study
The heart of Deans for Impact's story lies in Step Up's strategic use of Federal Work-Study and other public grant programs to compensate tutors with national and state funding. This academic year alone, we've supported over 300 high-impact tutors employed through Work-Study and more than 50 tutors through state and local grant programs such as College Corps and Angeleno Corps. These passionate tutors each dedicate 3-15 hours per week, delivering over $1 million in paid tutoring at no cost to students or our partners. Each year roughly $1.1 billion in Federal Work-Study dollars are granted to over 600,000 college students, with institutions of higher education required to allocate at least 7% of that funding to compensate community service activities. Federal Work-Study is a key strategy in building sustainable models for high-impact tutoring, as Step Up and similar organizations are able to grow low-cost, high-value tutor pipelines.
Empowering Students, Empowering Futures
The impact of leveraging Work-Study funding extends far beyond financial support. It has enabled us to:
Reach high-need students across California,
Drive significant academic gains, boost student progress, and
Play a pivotal role in diversifying our tutor community, with 85% of Work-Study applicants identifying as persons of color.
Recognizing our Work-Study Partners
We're immensely grateful for the collaboration and support of our Federal Work-Study partners. Some of the institutions that have been instrumental in our success include:
At Step Up Tutoring, we're dedicated to closing the opportunity gap and creating opportunities for college students and aspiring educators. With the support of organizations like Deans for Impact and our valued partners, we're confident in our ability to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of students across California and beyond.
Continuing to Make a Difference
The spotlight cast by Deans for Impact on Step Up Tutoring's innovative approach to growing the tutor community illuminates the power of collaboration and dedication. Through leveraging Federal Work-Study and other grant programs, Step Up has expanded its reach and created a dynamic community of passionate tutors committed to making a difference.
Impact Beyond Academic Support
As we reflect on the journey so far, it's evident that the impact goes beyond academic support. It's about empowering college students, nurturing future educators, and bridging the opportunity gap for all. With the unwavering support of organizations like Deans for Impact and our valued partners, Step Up Tutoring remains focused on creating a brighter, more equitable future for students across California and beyond.
Join us as we continue this remarkable journey of growth and impact! Together, we'll pave the way for brighter futures and endless possibilities.
For more information about Step Up Tutoring's Work-Study program, please contact workstudy@stepuptutoring.org.. And to discover more about Deans for Impact visit their website at www.deansforimpact.org.
