Tutoring Programs Lead to Future Success for Our Children and Our City

December 1, 2025

Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson and Professor K. Dara Hill argue that expanding tutoring and early childhood education programs represents a more practical approach to improving Detroit's education system than a city takeover of K-12 schools. They highlight Soar Detroit, an existing one-on-one tutoring initiative that has helped participants gain two grade levels in reading over one year, which is critical given that 86% of Detroit third graders read below grade level.

Who is affected

Detroit students in grades 2-5, particularly those from lower-income families
Third graders in Detroit (86% reading below grade level)
Detroit families participating in literacy programs
Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD)
University students training to become teachers (potential tutors)
Businesses considering locating in Detroit
Detroit residents and the broader city workforce

What action is being taken

Soar Detroit is currently providing one-on-one tutoring 2-3 times per week to students in grades 2-5
The Wealth Generation Task Force is supporting DPSCD through tutoring and early childhood learning programs
After-school enrichment programs are operating in Detroit
Tutors are collaborating with families to incorporate evidence-based literacy practices at home

Why it matters

Education is directly connected to Detroit's economic success and ability to attract businesses seeking an educated workforce and strong schools. With 86% of third graders unable to read at grade level, intensive interventions like tutoring are critical—studies show tutoring is the most effective approach for students from lower-income households and can increase learning gains by 3 to 15 months. The link between educational success and economic opportunity is particularly important for Detroit's long-term viability, as demonstrated by the connection between after-school enrichment programs and the city's improved high school graduation rate of 74.3%.

What's next

Proposed expansion of intensive tutoring programs to Detroit public libraries and recreation centers during after-school hours and/or Saturdays
Proposed citywide tutoring approach that would serve approximately 5,000 students annually at a cost of $9.4 million
Proposed utilization of university teaching students to offer two 30-minute tutoring sessions per week (25 hours total over 25 weeks)

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle