What is high-dosage tutoring?

It is a system of frequent (3–5 times a week) small-group or one-on-one tutoring sessions that concentrate on math or reading. Tutors can be paraprofessionals, retired teachers, or well-trained volunteers who spend at least 30 minutes per session with each group.

Why does it work so well?

High-dosage tutoring pinpoints the gaps that normal class time can’t always cover. Studies from groups like the National Bureau of Economic Research show that students, especially those struggling, can gain a whole extra year of learning. This is a proven, data-backed strategy to lift achievement scores.

Has Portland Public Schools tried it?

Yes and no. PPS has done limited after-school programs, often just 1–2 weekly sessions or short-term interventions. Some Title I schools use nonprofits like Schools Uniting Neighborhoods (SUN) or Reading Results. Still, these programs are scattered and not consistently run across the entire district.

What’s the biggest challenge?

PPS has never fully rolled out a daily tutoring plan for math and reading. The main hurdles are scheduling, finding enough tutors, and paying for a program that runs multiple days a week. We’ve seen pockets of success but never the district-wide consistency that makes a difference.

Why is this relevant to Portland?

Portland’s students come from diverse backgrounds, and the learning gap is significant in many neighborhoods. If PPS commits to more frequent, targeted tutoring, it could level the playing field for kids who otherwise get left behind. This isn’t just a pilot idea; it’s about giving every child a shot at success in our city.

What can PPS do right now?

✅ Allocate funds specifically for daily tutoring blocks in core subjects, starting in the schools with the highest need.

✅ Recruit and train tutors from local teacher-prep programs, community colleges, and retired educator networks.

✅ Offer space in libraries or empty classrooms, scheduling tutoring during or after school so students don’t miss out on other essentials.

✅ Track progress regularly to see which methods work best and then expand to more schools.

✅ Coordinate with existing nonprofits to create a uniform standard, ensuring all students get the same level of support.

Is this expensive?

It can be done on a tight budget using volunteers, college students, and modest stipends instead of hiring an entire staff. PPS can also seek state grants or philanthropic partnerships to fund additional tutoring hours. Even small budget shifts could free up money to start pilot programs in a handful of schools.

When Will PPS Do This?

Immediately.