Avon Schools Get Cash For More Tutors

AVON, CT — Following a recent announcement by state officials, several pupils in Avon schools will benefit from new program providing much-needed academic support to children who need it.

Gov. Ned Lamont and Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker recently announced the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) is releasing $11.5 million to 46 school districts across Connecticut to build and expand so-called "high-dosage tutoring" through the Connecticut High-Dosage Tutoring Program.

The Avon School System was the beneficiary of $118,600 for the program, which will serve about 76 pupils.

The goal is to give students enhanced educational opportunities and address the education disparities that have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The need for robust accelerated learning interventions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic has never been greater, and by dedicating this funding to create an intensive tutoring program, we can provide school districts with greater support to identify students who are struggling and connect them with the resources they need to succeed,” Lamont said in a statement.

Russell-Tucker said the need is acute and that was clear by the school districts' applications for the funding.

“We were truly inspired by the energy, vision, and thoughtfulness displayed in so many of these applications,” Russell-Tucker said. “It is evident that district and school leaders are enthusiastic and deeply committed to implementing high-dosage tutoring programs, which research has found time and time again to have a significant, positive impact on accelerating academic recovery for students.”

State officials announced the launch of the Connecticut High-Dosage Tutoring Program in March 2023 to target students in Grades 6 to 9 with a primary focus on enhancing mathematics proficiency.

CSDE initially allocated $10 from American Rescue Plan Elementary Secondary School Emergency Relief (ARP ESSER) funding for this program. In light of the high interest from districts during the application period, CSDE increased its commitment to $11.5 million.

Following an application period, a rigorous review process culminated in the allocation of funding to 46 districts, which are collectively expected to serve nearly 11,000 students.

For the full announcement, click on this link.