Commonly Asked Questions

• What ages or grade levels do you work with?  

At SOAR Tutoring Center, we primarily work with students ages 4–10, serving Transitional Kindergarten through 5th grade. We support learners at all ability levels, from those needing foundational skill development to those seeking enrichment and additional academic challenge. Occasionally, we also work with older students who need targeted support in foundational literacy skills. By strengthening these core skills, we help students build the confidence and competence needed for long-term academic success.

• What subjects do you specialize in? 

At SOAR Tutoring Center, we specialize in literacy instruction, with a strong focus on building the foundational skills students need to become confident, successful readers and writers. Our expertise includes phonemic awareness, phonics, decoding, vocabulary development, reading fluency, oral language development, grammar, and writing. These essential skills are taught through structured, research-based approaches to ensure students develop a solid literacy foundation. While literacy is at the core of our work, we also provide support in other subject areas such as math, science, and social studies. However, because strong reading and language skills are critical for success across all content areas, our primary focus remains on developing literacy to help students access and excel in all areas of learning.

• How do I know if my child needs tutoring?

There are many reasons a student may benefit from tutoring—and it’s not just for students who are struggling. While falling behind grade-level expectations in reading, writing, foundational skills, or math is one clear sign, tutoring can also support students who need more individualized attention to stay on track or rebuild confidence. Some students benefit from tutoring because they have busy extracurricular schedules and need structured academic support to keep up with schoolwork. Others may be doing “okay” in class, but still have underlying gaps or misconceptions that can grow over time if not addressed. Families also often seek tutoring when they are unsure how to best support their child at home and want expert guidance and a clear plan. Tutoring is also valuable for students who are ready to be challenged. Advanced learners can benefit from enrichment opportunities that push their thinking, deepen comprehension, and give them a strong academic advantage. One of the most important things to remember is that a “wait and see” approach can delay progress. The sooner a learning gap or misunderstanding is identified, the easier it is to address and support your child in getting back on track. Early support helps build confidence, prevent frustration, and create a strong foundation for long-term success.

• What makes SOAR Tutoring Center different from other programs?

At SOAR Tutoring Center, we believe that the quality of instruction begins with the quality of the teacher. We pride ourselves on the knowledge, compassion, and passion of our tutors. Every SOAR tutor is a credentialed teacher who is actively working in the classroom, bringing current, research-based practices directly into each session. Our tutors have extensive training in LETRS, Orton-Gillingham (OG), the Science of Reading, and Wilson Learning. This deep expertise allows us to provide structured, explicit, and highly effective instruction tailored to each student’s needs. We understand that literacy is essential for success in today’s world, and we are committed to giving every student the strong foundation they need to thrive. As Dr. Louisa Moats emphasizes, “Informed teachers are our best insurance against reading failure. While programs are very helpful tools, programs don't teach, teachers do.” This belief is at the core of our work. While we use high-quality instructional programs, it is our skilled and knowledgeable teachers who thoughtfully deliver instruction, analyze data, and adjust teaching to ensure meaningful progress. We also believe that student success is best achieved through strong partnerships with families. Ongoing communication is a priority at SOAR, and we work closely with families to share progress, provide support strategies, and ensure everyone is aligned in supporting each child’s growth. When tutors, students, and families work together, students are better supported and more successful. In addition to our expertise, we are deeply committed to building relationships with our students. Our tutors are kind, patient, and passionate about helping students grow—not just academically, but in confidence as well. At SOAR, students are supported, challenged, and empowered to reach their full potential.

• What is your teaching approach or philosophy?

At SOAR Tutoring Center, our teaching approach is rooted in research-based, data-driven instruction that is intentionally designed to meet the unique needs of each student. We begin by assessing each student’s current skills and use ongoing progress monitoring to guide instruction, adjust strategies, and ensure meaningful growth. This allows us to create personalized learning experiences that provide clear opportunities for students to achieve and rise. Our instruction is explicit, systematic, and grounded in the Science of Reading, incorporating proven methodologies such as Orton-Gillingham and other structured literacy practices. We prioritize consistency in both instructional routines and expectations, knowing that consistent, targeted practice builds confidence—and confident learners are more willing to take risks, engage deeply, and grow. We also believe that students need opportunities to actively demonstrate their knowledge in a supportive environment. Through guided practice, meaningful feedback, and gradual release of responsibility, students develop independence and a strong sense of ownership over their learning. As their skills strengthen, so does their confidence, allowing them to see themselves as capable, successful learners. At SOAR, our goal is not only to improve academic skills, but to empower students with the confidence and tools they need to continue learning and thriving beyond each session.

• How do you personalize instruction for each student?

At SOAR Tutoring Center, instruction is highly individualized and begins with a comprehensive intake process. We start with a meet and greet to learn about your child’s strengths, areas of concern, and your goals as a family. Students then complete baseline assessments in phonological awareness, phonics, reading fluency, and writing. Using this data, along with input from families and teachers, we develop a personalized learning plan. Instruction is continuously adjusted through ongoing progress monitoring to ensure your child is receiving targeted support that leads to meaningful growth.

• What does a typical tutoring session look like?

Each session is structured, engaging, and grounded in research-based practices aligned to the Science of Reading. Lessons include review previously learned skills, explicit instruction, guided practice, and opportunities for students to apply and demonstrate their learning. We follow consistent routines to help students feel comfortable and confident, while also incorporating multi-sensory strategies to support engagement and retention. Over time, students build both skill and independence as they take on more responsibility for their learning.

• How do you support struggling readers vs. advanced learners?

We meet every student where they are and tailor instruction accordingly. Struggling readers receive explicit, systematic instruction designed to fill foundational gaps and build essential literacy skills step by step. Advanced learners are provided with enrichment opportunities that deepen comprehension, expand vocabulary, and challenge higher-level thinking. In both cases, instruction is data-driven and adjusted regularly to ensure students are appropriately supported and challenged.

• What if my child is shy, frustrated, or lacks confidence?

Creating a safe, supportive environment is a priority at SOAR. We understand that many students come to tutoring feeling unsure of themselves, and we intentionally build relationships to help them feel comfortable and valued. Mistakes are treated as an important part of the learning process, and we focus on progress rather than perfection. As students experience success through consistent, targeted instruction, their confidence grows and they become more willing to take risks and engage in learning.

• How do you track progress over time?

We use ongoing progress monitoring to track student growth and guide instructional decisions. After each session, families receive an update outlining what was taught, how the student performed, and suggestions for continued support at home. We believe strong communication with families is essential, and we work to keep you informed and involved throughout your child’s learning journey.

• How will I know if my child is improving?

Student progress varies based on individual needs, starting skill level, and consistency of sessions. At SOAR, we emphasize that consistency plays a critical role in building both skills and confidence. Regular, targeted instruction helps students develop strong habits and make steady progress over time. While growth looks different for every child, consistent effort and support lead to meaningful and lasting results.

• Are sessions in-person or virtual and what is needed for the tutoring?

All sessions are conducted virtually, allowing for flexibility and convenience for families. Students will need a device that has a webcam and microphone with a reliable internet connection, along with printed materials and prepared materials kit. Having all materials ready before the session begins helps ensure that time is used effectively and efficiently.  A list of materials will be provided at the meet and greet or a full kit may be purchased from SOAR at that time.

• How long are sessions and how often should my child attend?

Sessions are typically 60 minutes, though 30-minute sessions are available depending on your child’s needs and attention span. Most students attend 1–3 sessions per week, depending on their goals and level of support needed. We will work with you to determine the best schedule to support your child’s success.

• What are your rates?

Sessions are $100 per 60 minutes and are prorated based on session length. Sessions can be 60 minutes (typical), 45 minutes, or 30 minutes in length. All sessions are paid in full at the time of booking. Sessions may be rescheduled with at least 24 hours’ notice at no additional fee. Cancellation policies include a full refund with two weeks’ notice, a partial refund within two weeks, and no refund for cancellations made within 24 hours.

• What is your cancellation policy?

We understand that in life unexpected things happen and a session may need to be canceled.  Your time is valuable, so is ours for those reasons we have the following cancellation policy in place. Sessions may be rescheduled at no cost with at least 24 hours’ notice. Sessions may only be rescheduled once. If sessions need to be cancelled and not rescheduled then the following cancellation policy applies.  

• Full refund: cancellations made 2 weeks in advance

• 50% refund: cancellations between 2 weeks and 24 hours

• No refund: cancellations within 24 hours