High Impact Tutoring | NSSA Certified & ESSA III Evidence

High Impact Tutoring Buyer's Guide

High Impact Tutoring FAQ Guide

What makes tutoring “high-impact”?

High-impact tutoring is defined by how it is delivered — not just how often it occurs. Research consistently points to several core elements:

The same tutor working with the same students over time
Small groups (1:1–3:1)
Multiple sessions per week
30–45 minutes per session
Sustained over multiple weeks
Instruction aligned to classroom standards and pacing

When these elements hold together, tutoring reinforces classroom learning and produces measurable academic growth.

Why is having the same tutor so important?

Tutor consistency enables relational continuity. When students work with the same tutor over time, sessions build on prior learning instead of re-diagnosing needs. This typically requires tutors who are part of a workforce—not independent contractors—so sessions remain consistent and aligned over the full cycle.

Is high-impact tutoring appropriate for Tier 2 support?

Yes. High-impact tutoring is particularly well-suited for Tier 2 targeted support because it provides structured, small-group instruction to students who need additional reinforcement.

Unlike digital programs commonly used for Tier 2 interventions, GROW high-impact tutoring operates as an extension of classroom instruction. It allows districts to provide additional dosage and guided practice without replacing core instruction.

When implemented with consistency and alignment, it strengthens Tier 2 systems rather than competing with them.

Is GROW delivered during the school day?

Yes. GROW is most commonly delivered during the school day, often in class, where attendance and consistency are strongest and teachers can better align tutoring with classroom instruction.

When needed, districts may also implement GROW during summer programming, lunch blocks, or after school.

What do students need to participate?

Students need a Chromebook or laptop and headphones. GROW runs through Paper’s secure platform and does not require additional hardware or complex setup.

What does the classroom teacher do during tutoring?

Teachers remain present and may provide light technical support for younger students as they become familiar with the platform.

Tutors share feedback with teachers about student progress and skill development. Teachers can also view progress data to reinforce instruction during non-tutoring time and adjust classroom teaching as needed.

Why is NSSA validation important?

The National Student Support Accelerator (NSSA) evaluates tutoring programs against rigorous, research-based design standards. Its validation signals that a program is structured to meet the core elements of high-impact tutoring — including dosage, consistency, instructional alignment, and quality oversight.

GROW’s design was reviewed and validated because it protects instructional and relational continuity through a dedicated tutor workforce and custom-built curriculum aligned to classroom learning. Few providers meet this standard.

What type of ESSA evidence does GROW have?

GROW holds ESSA Level III evidence specific to high-impact tutoring outcomes. This means the program has demonstrated measurable academic growth under defined research criteria.

Many tutoring providers reference research broadly. Far fewer can point to both formal ESSA evidence and independent program design validation through NSSA. GROW is one of the few that holds both.

What results does GROW produce?

District partners have seen:

3× as many students reach proficiency in ELA and/or math after 12 weeks of GROW
35% average score lift on nationally normed benchmark assessments

Beyond measurable growth, students demonstrate increased confidence and participation in class. Because tutoring centers on live, verbal instructional exchange aligned to real classroom content, students are not just practicing skills — they are actively building understanding they can apply immediately.