Danvers, Salem, Peabody Schools Awarded 'High-Dosage' State Tutoring Grants

SALEM, MA — Danvers, Peabody and Salem Public Schools will implement "high-dosage" literacy tutoring for students in grades kindergarten through third grade as part of a state grant program.

State Sen. Joan Lovely (D-Salem) announced the initiative designed to build foundational reading skills, with Grade 1 as a priority.

High-dosage tutoring provides one-on-one or small-group sessions multiple times a week for at least 10 weeks.

"I am pleased that schools in the district have been awarded these grants to take advantage of this program, which will provide essential support to our young students, helping them build the foundational reading skills necessary for their future success," Sen. Lovely said

The program is funded through a $25 million investment in Fair Share dollars.

"It's crucial for our teachers and schools to have access to theresources they need to support every young reader," Gov. Maura Healey. "This initiative will help bring high-dosage early literacy
tutoring directly to students who need it most."

“Through Literacy Launch and other initiatives like high-dosage tutoring, we are advancing our commitment to improve literacy education in Massachusetts," said Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll. "This type of tutoring has been proven to be highly effective."

Offered through the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, this initiative provides participating schools and districts with tutors at no cost. The tutoring offers flexible models, including in-person and virtual formats, designed to meet local needs during and after the school day.

DESE has selected qualified tutoring providers to partner with schools and work with students across the state. First graders are prioritized, as experts say that it is a crucial year to solidify early reading skills.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)