New tutoring program launches to help Hoosier kids
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Indianapolis-based nonprofit The Mind Trust, in partnership with the Indiana Department of Education, has launched the Indiana Learns tutoring platform. Announced in August, the statewide program provides up to $1,000 in grants to eligible families with fourth and fifth grade students who are struggling academically with math and reading.
Earlier this year, Governor Eric Holcomb signed House Enrolled Act 1251 to create a microgrant program for families that could provide additional learning support for students most impacted academically by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Eligible families can now access the Indiana Learns family platform, an online portal where they can view their grant funds, see Learning Partner vendors, and schedule tutoring services.
The program includes approved out-of-school academic programs for their students.
“For some families, obtaining tutoring services for their child is not an option financially,” said Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education. “Through Indiana Learns, additional tutoring opportunities are now available to more families to empower their children’s learning, with a specific focus on reading and math, which are essential for all future learning.”
To qualify for an Indiana Learns tutoring grant, students must meet the following criteria:
• Legally reside in Indiana
• Be enrolled at a traditional public, charter or accredited non-public school
• Qualify for Federal Free or Reduced Lunch, and
• Have scored Below Proficiency in both math and English/language arts on ILEARN as a third or fourth grader in 2022.
Indiana Learns says qualifying students will have access to $500 to apply toward approved tutoring services. If an eligible student attends a school that has committed to matching funds, that student will have access to a total of $1,000 in funds. Families will not directly manage the funds.
To learn how to apply, click here.