Literacy Tutoring Service
A Literacy Tutor is a trained professional who provides individualized or small group support to help students build essential reading and writing skills. At The Reading Alliance, our tutoring framework is steeped in the Science of Reading and equipped with strategies that target: Alphabet Knowledge, Phonological & Phonemic Awareness, Vocabulary/Oral Language, Fluency, and Comprehension.
Our tutors work after school, in person or virtually, helping students reinforce classroom instruction, fill learning gaps, and develop confidence as readers.
Schools: Why work with The Reading Alliance
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Supplement classroom instruction for minimally proficient readers
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Provide targeted support aligned with district literacy goals
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Boost reading scores and reduce retention risk
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Engage families with high-quality literacy interventions
Families: Why work with The Reading Alliance
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One-on-one attention for your child
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Help with foundational literacy skill and reading practice
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Support during critical reading years (K–3)
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Builds positive literacy habits at home
"Learning to read by third grade is the strongest predictor of future academic success. A literacy tutor ensures students don’t fall behind."
The Data: Why Early Tutoring Matters
Schools that partner with literacy tutors see immediate improvement in fluency, confidence, and comprehension—especially for students in K–3.
Importance of Male Tutors
Improved Behavior
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A study by the University of California, Irvine found that young students paired with male mentors exhibited fewer behavior problems and greater classroom engagement.
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Male role models can redirect disruptive behaviors, particularly in boys, and model emotional regulation, patience, and respect.
Improved Learning
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Male tutors help challenge gender stereotypes around reading being "only for girls."
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Boys with male tutors are more likely to engage in literacy activities and report feeling confident as learners.
“Sometimes it’s not just about reading the book—it’s about who is sitting next to the child while they read it.” -Navarro Whitaker, CEO of The Reading Alliance
Why Work with The Reading Alliance?
We recruit and train diverse, mission-driven literacy tutors, many of whom are young men seeking careers in education or community work. Our tutors bring:
✅ Evidence-based literacy instruction
✅ Strong relationship-building skills
✅ Culturally relevant approaches
✅ Dedication to closing opportunity gaps