GEAR UP SWV Celebrates Successful Launch of High-Dosage Tutoring Across Multiple Counties
For Immediate Release
December 17, 2025
Athens, W.Va. – GEAR UP Southern West Virginia (GEAR UP SWV) is pleased to announce the successful launch of High-Dosage Tutoring (HDT) in Algebra I and English Language Arts (ELA) in 9th grade classrooms across Monroe, Summers, and Wyoming counties, as well as at Bluefield High School, PikeView High School, and Princeton Senior High School in Mercer County.
This expansion marks a milestone in the region’s continued efforts to improve Algebra I readiness and success, a critical predictor of high school graduation and long-term postsecondary opportunities.
About the High-Dosage Tutoring Model
High-Dosage Tutoring is a program of Tutor.com, implemented through GEAR UP SWV, that provides students with consistent, small-group instruction delivered during class digitally by rigorously vetted, background-checked content specialists who receive ongoing training and quality monitoring. Students meet with tutors two to three times a week in groups of two to four, ensuring individualized support that aligns with classroom instruction and state standards.
In addition to improving academic outcomes, the HDT structure helps teachers reinforce classroom learning and engage students at varying levels of readiness.
Strong Results from 2024–2025 Pilot Program
Data from a pilot program in 2024–2025 show promising gains for students receiving HDT:
- 447 students completed standardized assessments at the beginning and end of the 2024-2025 school year, with 26 of these students participating in High-Dosage Tutoring.
- Tutored students increased their scores, on average, by 73.3 points, compared to 49.5 points for their non-tutored peers.
- Students scoring between 200–350 at baseline saw the greatest benefit from tutoring in the pilot program.
These results come from a comprehensive evaluation conducted in partnership with the Vela Institute, which guided the program using their Evidence-Based Problem-Solving (EBPS) framework. The analysis also showed increased educator engagement, improved student participation, and meaningful instructional adjustments driven by student feedback.
By integrating research-driven practices, stakeholder collaboration, and consistent implementation, GEAR UP SWV and its partners are making measurable progress toward improving Algebra I outcomes throughout the region.
High-Dosage Tutoring is part of a broader, multi-year strategy to ensure students have the academic foundation needed for postsecondary success. The early results demonstrate the program’s potential to increase both student confidence and achievement—key components in preparing students for advanced coursework and future college and career pathways.
GEAR UP SWV students also have access to Tutor.com outside of class time 24/7.
About GEAR UP SWV: GEAR UP Southern West Virginia (GEAR UP SWV) prepares students for success and careers after high school by providing tools, support, and real-world experiences. Serving the classes of 2028 and 2029 in Mercer, Monroe, Raleigh, Summers, and Wyoming counties’ public schools, GEAR UP SWV also works with teachers, administrators, and families to strengthen the entire educational community.
GEAR UP SWV is a $20.3 million, 50% cost-share program led by Concord University in partnership with New River Community and Technical College. This program is part of the national Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) initiative, funded by the U.S. Department of Education.
The contents of this publication were developed under a grant from the U.S. Department of Education. However, the contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the U.S. Department of Education, and endorsement by the Federal Government should not be assumed.
Learn more at GEARUPSWV.org or by following GEAR UP SWV on social media.
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