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Commonwealth Tutoring Group

Defining High-Impact Tutoring: A Catalyst for Educational Success

Posted on Posted by Commonwealth Tutoring Group Categories Guides, Terms and Definitions

Also called “High-Dosage Tutoring”, High-Impact Tutoring is a form of personalized tutoring that consists of regularly occurring, relationship-driven, usually 1-on-1 or small group tutoring sessions that are specific to the individual needs of the student, but are not generally the same as the typical IEP (individualized education program) or “study hall.” This educational strategy has been researched time and time again and continues to prove its efficacy. It’s also been found to be a powerful supplement to classroom experiences, rather than a replacement for them.

In other words, high-impact tutoring is defined as as one-on-one or small group instruction aimed at achieving specific educational goals, emphasizing substantial time each week, strong student-tutor relationships, and close monitoring of student progress​​.

We’ll break down each key component of high-impact tutoring here to help you get a better understanding.

Relationship-Driven and Individualized

High-impact tutoring (remember, some people and organizations use high-dosage tutoring synonymously) is anchored intensive relationship-driven individualized instruction. There are an abundance of meta-analyses and studies that highlight its superior performance over other academic interventions. Its personalized approach allows for targeted learning that addresses students’ specific needs. Since it is best that this style of tutoring be facilitated in a 1-on-1 or small group setting, it provides a nurturing environment for both educational and personal growth​​. Students undergoing high-impact tutoring often feel more connected to the instructor, which in turn helps them to connect better with the content. Not only this, but since high-dosage tutoring typically means that students will receive at least 1.5 hours of this kind of instruction each week, spread over a few days, it allows more time for instructors to really listen to their students and figure how they are think and how they are motivated at a personal level.

Regularity

One of the most significant benefits of high-impact tutoring is its ability to accelerate student learning in a way that is equitable and grounded in real-world contexts. Unlike traditional methods that may cater to the masses, high-impact tutoring zeroes in on the individual, providing the necessary resources and attention to facilitate genuine understanding and application of knowledge​​ over time. Most resources recommend a minimum of three (3) 30-minute sessions per week. With regard to apportionment, each session is usually focused on one particular subject matter. The entire duration of the student-tutor relationship should include time to correct and reflect on what was learned in the past as well as master new subjects while preparing a foundation for future knowledge expansion.

Challenges for Schools

While the advantages are plentiful, high-impact tutoring is not without its challenges, especially within school divisions such as those found in Virginia. Implementing a program of this nature requires thoughtful coordination, adequate resources, and a shift in traditional educational paradigms. Schools must contend with scheduling conflicts, resource allocation, and ensuring that tutoring sessions are—ideally—seamlessly integrated into the regular school day to avoid student burnout and ensure accessibility​​. Furthermore, there is a need for a data-driven approach to keep the tutoring aligned with each student’s evolving needs and the school’s curriculum​​.

Conclusion

In the spirit of educational advancement and personal growth, Commonwealth Tutoring is partnering with schools and parents in Virginia to leverage technology-enhanced, high-dosage tutoring and provide our students with the tools they need to overcome challenges and achieve academic success. Now, more than ever, is the time to invest into the future, and it starts with ensuring that students receive the quality education they deserve.

Understanding Virginia’s Core Curriculum: The Foundation of Student Learning

Posted on Posted by Commonwealth Tutoring Group Categories Terms and Definitions, VDOE (Virginia Department of Education)

TL;DR

According to the VDOE, the core curriculum is defined as “The body of knowledge that all students are expected to learn in the subjects of English, mathematics, history/social science and science.”²

Defining The Virginia Core Curriculum

In the realm of education, a well-defined curriculum serves as a guide to academic success. For Virginia’s public schools, this is the Standards of Learning (SOL)¹, a comprehensive framework that encapsulates the commonwealth’s expectations for student learning and achievement from kindergarten through 12th grade.

At the heart of the SOL lies the “core curriculum,” a robust body of knowledge that forms the foundation of every student’s educational journey. This essential curriculum encompasses four key subjects: English, Mathematics, History/Social Science, and Science². These subjects are deemed crucial for students to master, as they lay the groundwork for future learning and personal growth.

While the core curriculum forms the backbone of Virginia’s educational system, it is complemented by a rich array of additional subjects that enhance and expand upon the core, providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in an ever-changing world.

The following are Virginia’s SOL subjects (excluding the core curriculum):

  • Computer Science
  • Digital Learning Integration
  • Driver Education
  • Economics & Personal Finance
  • Family Life Education
  • Fine Arts
  • Health Education
  • Physical Education
  • World Languages.

The Virginia Board of Education first adopted the Standards of Learning (SOLs) in 1995 to provide a framework for educational objectives across various subjects. Although the SOLs were implemented in 1995, it wasn’t until 1998 that the SOL tests were field-tested, and passing scores were established. From 1998 to 2001, there was a significant increase in passing rates, indicating a positive impact on student achievement. In 2000, the Board of Education adopted the SOL Technology Standards, outlining expectations for students’ knowledge and abilities related to technology. The SOLs have undergone multiple revisions since their initial adoption, with notable updates in 2001, 2008, 2015, and most recently in 2023. Despite improvements in student performance, the SOLs have faced controversies and challenges related to field testing, accountability measures, and their impact on teaching and learning.

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) and the Virginia Board of Education develop and release the Standards of Learning (SOLs) to establish a comprehensive framework for instruction in Virginia’s public schools. The SOLs are constructed through a collaborative process involving input from various stakeholders, including parents, teachers, administrators, and representatives from higher education and state organizations. The standards are designed to be developmentally appropriate, vertically coherent across grade levels, and to emphasize conceptual understanding, procedural knowledge, and real-world applications of concepts. The primary purpose of the SOLs is to set clear expectations for student learning and achievement at each grade level, ensuring consistency in education across the state and preparing students for success in higher education and future careers. The SOLs are reviewed and revised on a regular basis to maintain their rigor, relevance, and alignment with the needs of students, educators, and the workforce.

As Virginia continues to prioritize educational excellence, the core curriculum remains a vital component of student learning and achievement. By focusing on these fundamental subjects and providing students with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills, we can inspire a generation of critical thinkers, effective communicators, and engaged citizens, ready to tackle the challenges of the 21st century and beyond.

At Commonwealth Tutoring, we recognize the importance of the core curriculum in shaping the minds and futures of Virginia’s students. Our dedicated team of educators is committed to supporting students in mastering these essential subjects, empowering them to reach their full potential and thrive in their academic pursuits. Through personalized, high-impact tutoring, we partner with families to ensure that every student has the tools, resources, and guidance they need to excel in the core curriculum and beyond.

If you are searching for a 100% virtual tutor for your K-12 student, book a discovery call today.

Sources:

Virginia Department of Education. “K-12 Standards & Instruction.” Available at: https://www.doe.virginia.gov/teaching-learning-assessment/instruction[1].

Virginia Department of Education. “Glossary of Education Terms.” Available at: https://www.doe.virginia.gov/about-vdoe/glossary-of-education-terms[2].

The Ultimate Guide to the Virginia K-12 Learning Acceleration Grant

Posted on Posted by Commonwealth Tutoring Group Categories Guides, K-12 Learning Acceleration Grant
It is highly recommended that you read the official overview and criteria alongside this blog post (Virginia DOE website).

What is the Virginia K-12 Learning Acceleration Grant?

The Virginia K-12 Learning Acceleration Grant is a program launched by Governor Glenn Youngkin to support the education of Virginia families. The program provides grants of up to $3,000 to fund tutoring and educational services for school-age children. Created to mitigate the educational setbacks caused by the pandemic, this program was designed for to families with children in any form of K-12 education in Virginia, be it public, private, charter, or home-school. The program has been very popular, and the funding was doubled from $30 million to $60 million due to overwhelming demand.

What is ClassWallet?

ClassWallet is a financial technology platform that allows schools and educational organizations to allocate, track, and spend funds in an efficient, transparent manner. It provides a suite of tools for administrators, teachers, and other stakeholders to manage budgets, transactions, and reporting. All vendors that are authorized to take payments from clients using grant funding are registered on ClassWallet, including Commonwealth Tutoring Group LLC.

ClassWallet Documentation about criteria, use, and processing of funds.

How do Virginians (Parents and Students) Benefit?

Although the program closed to new applicants around June 1, 2023. It reopened on September 18, 2023.

The grant has specific conditions for eligibility.

We have been closely monitoring the grant at Commonwealth Tutoring. Below is a simplified summary of the criteria:

  1. Age Requirement (Option A): For students without a qualifying disability, the age range is 5 to 20 years. The student must have turned 5 on or before September 30, 2023, and not have turned 20 on or before August 1, 2023.
  2. Age Requirement (Option B): For students with a qualifying disability, the age range is 2 to 22 years. The student must have turned 2 on or before September 30, 2023, and not have turned 22 on or before August 1, 2023.
  3. Graduation Status Requirements: The student must not have graduated.
  4. Residency Requirements: The student must be a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
  5. Income Level Requirements: An application and documentation of family income falling at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Guideline are required.

A Closer Look at the Income Level Requirement

The income level condition is often misunderstood, leading many families to overlook this grant opportunity. The language of this condition is crucial to understand. In Virginia, a 3-person household (for example, two parents and a school-age child) with an income of around $24K is considered to be at the poverty level. However, the grant’s income eligibility extends to households with incomes up to 300% of the Federal Poverty Guideline, which translates to approximately $72K for a 3-person household. Therefore, even if you think your income might disqualify you, it’s worth checking the official poverty chart, as you may very well be eligible for this grant. For the Virginia Poverty Chart, visit the U.S. Federal Poverty Guidelines Used to Determine Financial Eligibility for Certain Programs.

What You Should Do

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to accelerate your child’s education. If you meet the criteria, apply for the Virginia K-12 Learning Acceleration Grant today. For those interested in fully virtual, personalized tutoring services, Commonwealth Tutoring is here to partner with Virginia families in this educational journey. Visit the front-page of our website at https://commonwealthtutoring.org to learn more and enroll now!

Spending Deadlines

Please be mindful that no matter which grant you receive

$1,500 grants: must be spent no later than December 30, 2023.

$3,000 grants: must be spent no later than May 30, 2024.

For the official application, visit FACTS Grant & Aid.

How to Submit Payment on ClassWallet: A Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on Posted by Commonwealth Tutoring Group Categories Uncategorized

Video and Written Guide: How to Pay A Vendor Via ClassWallet

Hey there, valued tutors and Virginia families!

We understand that new platforms can sometimes be a bit tricky to navigate. That’s why we’ve put together a concise guide to walk you through the payment submission process on ClassWallet.

In just a few easy steps, you’ll be all set and confident in managing your transactions. Dive in and ensure a smooth and hassle-free payment experience!

Video

Written Instructions

  1. Access ClassWallet Desktop Page: Start by logging into your ClassWallet account on your desktop.
  2. Locate the ‘Pay Vendor’ Tile: Scroll down on the main page to find the “pay vendor” tile. Alternatively, click on the hamburger menu (three horizontal lines) in the upper left corner and scroll down to see the “pay vendor” option.
  3. Select Your School or Service Provider: Once inside, you’ll see a list of schools and service providers. Use the search function to find the one you’re looking for and click on their name.
  4. Upload Invoices: You’ll be prompted to upload the payment invoice for the school or service provider. If you have multiple invoices, you can upload them all on the same page.
  5. Enter Payment Details:
    • Input the dollar amount for the payment.
    • Choose the purse from which the funds will be debited.
    • Select the category related to the payment. If the payment falls under multiple categories, you can select more than one.
  6. Add Comments (Optional): If you wish, you can add any additional comments or notes about the payment.
  7. Review and Confirm: Once you’ve reviewed all the details, click “Next.”
  8. Completion: After clicking “Next”, your payment submission is complete!

Follow these steps, and you’ll have a seamless payment experience on ClassWallet!

Special Announcement: New Deadline for Virginia K-12 Learning Acceleration Grant Recipients

Posted on Posted by Commonwealth Tutoring Group Categories Summer Launch

The state of Virginia is now requiring grant awardees to make a qualified purchase prior to December 1
(Updated: October, 2023)

We have updated the spending deadline details to ensure better alignment with your planning.

Here are the new spending deadlines based on the grant amount you received:

All $3000 Grant Awardees must utilize their grant funds by May 30, 2024.
All $1500 Grant Awardees must utilize their grant funds by December 30, 2023.
All Grant Awardees must make at least one qualified purchase by December 1, 2023, regardless of the amount of the grant award.

Grant recipients who do not utilize their funds within the specified timeframe will have their remaining funds redistributed by the state.

It’s essential to adhere to these deadlines to ensure that you benefit fully from the grant.

Commonwealth Tutoring is an Authorized Vendor on ClassWallet.

We provide online tutoring services in core academic subjects for grades K-12. You can Enroll Today to experience the power of personalized, relationship-driven tutoring services.

Don’t Miss Out: Virginia K-12 Acceleration Grant Funding Deadline Approaching Fast!

Posted on Posted by Commonwealth Tutoring Group Categories Summer Launch
AS OF SEPTEMEBER, 2023, THIS INFORMATION HAS BEEN UPDATED.
READ HERE: Special Announcement: New Deadline for Virginia K-12 Learning Acceleration Grant Recipients

The Problem and The Opportunity

Families in Virginia who have received the K-12 Learning Acceleration Grant were awarded up to $3000. But there’s a catch—you must make at least one qualified purchase by September 1st, or the state will redistribute your funds.

However, you do not have to miss this chance to invest in your child’s education with the funds you’ve been awarded.

Transforming Education: A Golden Opportunity for Virginia Families

Commonwealth Tutoring is an Authorized Vendor on ClassWallet.

We provide online tutoring services in core academic subjects. We can guarantee enrollment in our tutoring program, producing the invoice that you need if you get in touch by Tuesday, August 29. Openings are filling fast, and families are saving hundreds of dollars by not procrastinating. More importantly, they are securing a brighter future for their children.

At Commonwealth Tutoring, we believe in the transformative power of education. We see learning as a lifelong journey, filled with personal breakthroughs and individual growth. Our approach goes beyond grades and standardized tests, focusing on wisdom, resilience, and effective research methods. We equip students to lead themselves and provide families with the tools to support them effectively.

Act Now: Click Here To Sign Up

Distribution DateGrant AmountFirst Purchase DeadlineFinal Usage Deadline
Prior to Aug 14$1,500Sep 1, 2023Dec 30, 2023
Prior to Aug 14$3,000Sep 1, 2023May 30, 2024
After Aug 14$1,500Dec 1, 2023Dec 30, 2023
After Aug 14$3,000Dec 1, 2023May 30, 2024
  • Distribution Date: The date when the grant was awarded to the recipient.
  • Grant Amount: The total amount of money awarded through the grant.
  • First Purchase Deadline: The date by which the recipient must make their first eligible purchase using the grant funds.
  • Final Usage Deadline: The date by which any unused funds must be spent, or they will be returned to and redistributed by the State.

Innovation in Education: Meeting the Youth Where They Are

Posted on Posted by Commonwealth Tutoring Group Categories Summer Launch

We believe that every student is unique, with their own set of strengths, interests, and aspirations. We understand that the traditional one-size-fits-all approach to education does not cater to the diverse needs of our students. That’s why we’re committed to innovation in education, reaching out to the youth “where they are” and providing them with opportunities tailored to their individual paths.

We recognize that not all students will follow the same path after high school. Some may choose to attend college, while others might pursue a trade. Some may be drawn to the arts, while others may have the entrepreneurial spirit to start their own ventures. Each path is valid and full of potential, and it’s our mission to help students discover the path that resonates with them.

To do this, we’re constantly on the lookout for opportunities that our students might not otherwise know about. We understand that information is power, and we want to empower our students and their families with knowledge about the diverse opportunities available to them.

From scholarships that can make college more affordable, to apprenticeships that provide hands-on experience in various trades, we strive to provide a comprehensive range of opportunities. We also seek out internships that can give students a taste of the professional world, and mentorship programs that can provide guidance and support as they navigate their chosen paths.

But our commitment to innovation doesn’t stop there. We’re always exploring new ways to enhance our services and better serve our students. This includes integrating established psychological theories into our tutor-pupil matching system to ensure a personalized learning experience, and fostering strategic partnerships to expand the opportunities available to our students.

At Commonwealth Tutoring, we believe in the potential of every student to achieve excellence, no matter what path they choose. We’re here to support them every step of the way, providing the resources, guidance, and opportunities they need to unlock their full potential and achieve their dreams.

5 Essential Resources for Unraveling the DISC Assessment

Posted on Posted by Commonwealth Tutoring Group Categories Summer Launch

At Commonwealth Tutoring, we believe in the power of personalized learning and the importance of understanding our students’ unique behavioral traits. One of the tools that has been gaining attention in the educational field is the DISC assessment. Originally created by psychologist William Moulton Marston, the DISC theory focuses on four primary behavioral traits: Dominance (D), Influence (I), Steadiness (S), and Conscientiousness (C).

To help you delve deeper into the world of DISC, we’ve curated a list of five essential resources that shed light on the use and benefits of the DISC assessment in educational settings:

  1. NCAA: DISC Behavioral Assessments: This article from the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) provides an overview of how the DISC assessment is used in the context of sports, showcasing its versatility and applicability in various fields.
  2. DISC Personality and the College or Trade School Debate: This blog post from DISC Insights discusses the role of DISC personality assessments in guiding students’ decisions about college or trade school, highlighting the practical implications of understanding one’s DISC profile.
  3. Using DISC to Help Students Succeed: Extended DISC offers insights into how the DISC assessment can be used to help students succeed, emphasizing the importance of personalized learning approaches.
  4. A study on PubMed: For those interested in the scientific backing of the DISC assessment, this study available on PubMed provides a deeper dive into the research behind DISC.
  5. Assessments & Tests for Choice of Major and Career: Degree Choices discusses various assessments and tests, including DISC, that can help students make informed decisions about their majors and careers.

We hope these resources provide a valuable starting point for your exploration into the DISC assessment and its potential to enhance personalized learning. As always, we’re here to support your learning journey and help unlock your inner excellence.

 

Enhancing Personalized Learning at Commonwealth Tutoring

Posted on Posted by Commonwealth Tutoring Group Categories Summer Launch

At Commonwealth Tutoring, we believe in the power of personalized learning. We understand that each student is unique, with their own strengths, weaknesses, and ways of understanding the world. That’s why we’re always looking for innovative ways to tailor our tutoring services to the individual needs of each pupil.

We’re excited to share that we’re exploring new methodologies to enhance our proprietary tutor-pupil matching system. These methodologies are grounded in established psychological theories that focus on understanding individual behavioral traits. By gaining deeper insights into our students’ personalities, we can better match them with tutors who complement their learning styles.

This approach is about more than just academic success. It’s about fostering personal growth and unlocking the potential within each student. It’s about understanding oneself, empowering families to provide the best support, and nurturing a productive and inspiring tutor-student relationship.

By integrating these psychological insights into our system, we aim to maximize the effectiveness of our tutoring services. We believe that understanding a student’s unique personality traits can lead to personal breakthroughs and greater academic success. This isn’t just about transferring knowledge; it’s about creating a learning environment that resonates with the student’s individuality.

At Commonwealth Tutoring, we’re committed to empowering breakthroughs and drawing out the inner excellence of every student. We’re excited about the potential of these new methodologies to enhance our services and look forward to witnessing the positive impact on our students’ learning journeys.

An Exciting Introduction to Virginia: Commonwealth Tutoring Launches in July!

Posted on Posted by Commonwealth Tutoring Group Categories Summer Launch

Hello, fellow learners and parents in the Commonwealth of Virginia! We are beyond thrilled to announce the launch of our operations in your beautiful state in early July 2023. We are Commonwealth Tutoring, and we are dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality education for students of all levels. We aim to redefine the concept of learning and make it a fun, engaging, and productive experience for everyone involved.

As a firm believer in equal educational opportunities, Commonwealth Tutoring was established with the vision of empowering students and helping them reach their fullest potential. We understand that every student is unique and has different learning styles and paces. Therefore, we strive to tailor our tutoring sessions to suit each individual’s needs and ensure that they grasp every concept completely.

We’re thrilled to expand our services to Virginia, a state known for its commitment to education, boasting some of the best schools and universities in the country. By integrating our tutoring services into the Virginian education community, we aspire to add another layer of academic support and enrichment for students, contributing to Virginia’s legacy of educational excellence.

Now, we have some fantastic news for our early bird clients! As a token of our appreciation for your trust and support in our early days in Virginia, we will be offering a special introductory rate for our tutoring services. Instead of our usual fee of $50.00 per hour, early bird clients will receive our exceptional tutoring services at a discounted rate of just $35.00 per hour for the first two months. That’s right! You get a $15 discount per hour, a deal you won’t want to miss.

Whether you’re an elementary school student struggling with fractions, a high schooler seeking to ace the SAT, or a college student needing assistance with complex calculus equations, our team of highly skilled, experienced tutors is here to help. They are not just educators but mentors, keen on building relationships with their students, encouraging curiosity, and fostering a love of learning. Stay tuned to our website, commonwealthtutoring.org, for more updates, and don’t forget to take advantage of our early bird offer.

From the entire team at Commonwealth Tutoring, we say welcome! We’re excited to learn, grow, and draw out excellence together.