Tap Into Federal Funds

There’s a reason federal funding is the first stop for many schools—it’s reliable and built to support student achievement. Some of the key sources include:

• Title I, Part A Funds – Designed to support schools with high populations of low-income students, these funds can cover tutoring services that help close achievement gaps.
• Title I, Section 1003(g) School Improvement Grants – Tutoring programs targeting high-needs populations, including English Language Learners, can be funded through these grants.
• IDEA Funds – If your school serves students with disabilities, these funds can be used to provide specialized tutoring.
• Title II, Part A – While these funds do not directly pay for student services, they support professional development for teachers and paraprofessionals who tutor.
• Title III, Part A – These funds support tutoring for English learners, helping to improve instruction and acquire upgraded curricula.
• Title IV, Part A – This funding supports student support and academic enrichment, which can include tutoring programs.
• Title IV, Part B (21st Century Community Learning Centers) – Supports after-school academic enrichment, including tutoring, to help students meet state and local standards.
• Title I, Part D – Provides tutoring support for children and youth returning to school from correctional facilities.
• McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Funds – Supports tutoring for students experiencing homelessness.
• Rural Education Programs (REAP-RLIS, SRSA) – Allows rural schools to fund tutoring services.
• AmeriCorps Grants – Funding is available for tutoring programs through AmeriCorps State and National grants, AmeriCorps VISTA, and AmeriCorps Seniors (Foster Grandparent and RSVP programs).

Check Out State-Specific Grants

Many states are investing in tutoring initiatives, and your school might qualify for additional funding. A great example is:

• Accelerate’s Grants Program – Launched in October 2024, this initiative provides up to $1M to states working to expand high-dosage tutoring. (More info here)
• State Education Agency (SEA) Programs – Some states, like Ohio, are using emergency relief funds to offer tutoring services at no cost to schools. It’s worth checking if your state has similar opportunities!
• ESSER III Spending Extension – Districts can apply for a 14-month extension, potentially allowing schools to fund tutoring into Spring 2026.

Leverage Post-Secondary Programs for Tutors

Schools can tap into existing post-secondary funding and programs to bring in tutors:

• Federal Work-Study (FWS) – Allows qualifying college students to get paid to tutor in K-12 schools.
• Educator Preparation Program Courses – Some universities offer tutoring as part of degree requirements, which can provide free or low-cost tutors.
• Community Service Credits & Course Credit – Secondary and post-secondary students can earn service-learning credits for tutoring.
• Awards & Co-Curricular Records – Schools can establish awards or recognition programs for student tutors.

Get Creative With Your Budget

Sometimes, funding tutoring doesn’t require new money—it’s about reallocating existing resources. Schools can combine multiple funding sources (federal, state, and local) or shift budgets to prioritize tutoring.

Additionally, blending and braiding funds from different sources can help stretch existing dollars. Prioritizing more restrictive funding first allows schools to maximize flexible funds for additional needs.

Make the Most of What’s Out There

High-dosage tutoring is an investment in students’ futures, and plenty of funding sources exist to make it possible. Whether through federal grants, state programs, or community partnerships, schools have options to bring quality tutoring to their students.

Want to learn more? Check out these recent funding wins:

• Middletown School Uses $147K Grant for After-School Tutoring

• East Hartford, Enfield & Manchester Secure State Grants for Tutoring

• How Some Schools Are Helping Students Catch Up Faster

By exploring these funding opportunities, schools can ensure their students get the support they need to thrive!