This program will offer a sliding-scale tutoring service for struggling readers in grades K-9. We match children with highly trained tutors who specialize in structured literacy, the research-backed approach proven most effective for students at risk of reading difficulties.
Each child will get personalized one-on-one tutoring sessions, usually lasting 30-45 minutes, one to three times a week. The instruction targets key reading skills—phonemic awareness, phonics, spelling, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension—and is customized to meet each child's unique needs. Tutors are certified or trained in leading programs such as Orton-Gillingham, Wilson, LETRS, and AIM Pathways to Proficient Reading.
Sessions are available virtually nationwide and, in select areas, in person.
Tutors will use Reading Go, an elementary literacy intervention specifically designed for struggling readers. Based on the Science of Reading, Reading Go combines evidence-based practices into highly engaging, multimodal lessons. Each session offers explicit and systematic instruction to strengthen foundational reading skills, covering all five components of literacy: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
To make tutoring accessible to all families, Slide Into Reading will employ a sliding-scale fee structure. Costs range from $0 to $60 per session, depending on household income. For example, families earning less than $40,000 annually pay between $0-$15 per session, while those in the highest income tier contribute $55-$60 per session—helping to fund access for other families. Every contribution directly promotes literacy equity by providing structured reading instruction to children who might not otherwise have access.
Currently, tutors are completing certification and onboarding. Families interested in participating should submit their Family Interest Form by December 1, 2025. In early December, we will begin matching students with tutors, allowing instruction to start in January.
If you are a parent or caregiver of a child who struggles with reading or suspects dyslexia, we encourage you to complete the Slide Into Reading Family Interest Form. After submission, our team will contact you to confirm details, verify your eligibility for the sliding-scale tuition and arrange a brief screening before pairing your child with a tutor.
Even if you're not a parent, you can help by sharing this information with your network, including educators, librarians, pediatricians, community organizations, or anyone supporting children's learning.
Every referral helps us reach another child who deserves the chance to become a confident reader!
