Behning: High schoolers can tutor younger students, earn credit

STATEHOUSE (July 17, 2020) – When students begin school in the coming weeks, a new opportunity to fulfill graduation requirements will be available to high school juniors and seniors to tutor younger students, according to State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis).

Behning said students can experience some form of learning loss over summer break, meaning they do not retain some of the lessons they learned the previous school year, but most are typically able to relearn these lessons quickly. However, because students participated in remote- or e-learning due to COVID-19, a recent NWEA report estimates some children could begin the 2020-2021 school year up to nearly a full grade level behind their peers in some subject areas. To help bridge this gap, Behning said schools can implement the Indiana Department of Education’s newly developed Indiana Tutoring Fellowship, which will fulfill the Service-Based Learning Experience under Graduation Pathway Requirement #2.

“Learning loss is a real issue and as many students transition back to the classroom from e-learning, they will need additional support to make sure they’re progressing alongside their peers,” said Behning, chair of the House Education Committee. “This is an excellent opportunity for juniors and seniors to serve as tutors, especially those interested in pursuing a career in education. They can make a difference in a young person’s life and learn new skills, all while earning credit.”

To be eligible to participate in this program, Behning said students must be a high school junior or senior, maintain at least a 3.0 GPA and be in good behavioral standing. The IDOE recommends tutoring sessions take place virtually, but if students are permitted to meet face-to-face, social distancing must be followed. Tutors will work with students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

Behning authored the 2017 law creating Indiana’s graduation pathways, which allows students to pursue opportunities that best meet their education and career goals. 

Visit doe.in.gov/graduation-pathways for more information.