It's time to reach 3rd graders

Dear Supporter,

At Tutoring Plus, you get to witness the difference that individuals can make on a nightly basis. You see it when a student has a lightbulb moment with a math concept they’ve struggled with for weeks, and their tutor cheers just as loudly as they do. You see it in the trust built between students and volunteers who show up week after week, year after year. While these relationships are initially task-oriented towards homework, they ultimately become about consistency, encouragement, and belonging.

As we’ve welcomed 30 new 4th graders this fall, each student takes pride in their art skills, their soccer tournaments, or the new friends they have made. Yet, every one of them describes their goals to do better in school. Their families and guardians echo this hope, alongside their worries. Their most common answer is, “I don’t want [them] to fall too far behind.”

By the time students reach us in 4th grade, many already feel like they are playing catch-up. 3rd Grade is a turning point. It’s the year when children stop learning to read and start reading to learn. Research shows that students who aren’t proficient in reading by 3rd grade are four times less likely to graduate high school.

With your support, we’re ready to expand our programs to reach students earlier, starting in 3rd grade. You can give them the strong foundation they need for lifelong success. Make your donation today.

Here is a small glimpse of what your generosity made possible last school year:

• 147 students received consistent, individualized tutoring and mentoring through deeply committed volunteer relationships.
• 120 students gained math skills and were exposed to 3D coding through our Math+ and BlocksCAD3D programming, thanks to your support with our Full STEAM Ahead campaign.
• 20 high schoolers completed workshops in school and career readiness, with every single student securing summer jobs or internships.
• Over 100 backpacks, filled with school supplies, were given to families to reduce the financial burden of back-to-school season.

So much in the world feels uncertain right now. Across the country, we’re facing division and deep challenges to equity, opportunity, and community. All of which are values that Tutoring Plus firmly centers in our work. However, you get to see a different story unfolding every evening in our programs. One where people choose connection over division and action over apathy.

You help us stand as a reminder of what’s possible when a community supports and champions its young people. Your donation today, no matter how big or how small, helps us reach students earlier.

• $50 provides snacks and program materials so students can learn with full bellies and all the supplies they need.
• $100 fills a backpack with school supplies, ensuring a student starts the school year confidently and equipped.
• $250 covers 2 months of Tutoring Plus programming for 1 student.

Will you champion the education of students in Cambridge this winter? Will you help us reach our goal of $50,000?

Donate today using the box to the right. We can also accept donations via check. Check can be mailed to:

Tutoring Plus of Cambridge - 225 Windsor Street - Cambridge, MA 02139

You can ensure that every student, starting in 3rd grade, has someone in their corner who believes in them, week after week.

Thank you for standing with us and with Cambridge’s young learners.

Together, we’re proving that when people choose community and action over uncertainty, change truly is possible.

Sincerely,

Jacey Buel & Jordan Harvey,

Executive Director & Director of Programs

Tutoring Plus of Cambridge