Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Freeman proposes tutoring program for PA public schools

Freeman proposes tutoring program for PA public schools

Rep. Robert L. Freeman    March 12, 2025 | 10:35 AM

HARRISBURG, March 12 – High school seniors and juniors would receive academic credit for tutoring students in lower grades under legislation introduced by state Rep. Robert Freeman.

“Tutoring is a time-honored and cost-effective way to enhance academic performance for both the student being tutored and the student who serves as a tutor. Additionally, tutoring can reinforce learning for both the tutor and the pupil as well as increase good study habits, improve academic performance, boost self-esteem, and put students in charge of their own learning process as they pass on that knowledge to younger students,” said Freeman, D-Northampton.

Freeman said his legislation (H.B. 827) would not be a state mandate, rather it would be a program public schools could choose to utilize.

The bill would require the state Department of Education to establish a “Cross-Age Tutoring Program” whereby students who are seniors and juniors, under the supervision of a certified teacher or paraprofessional, may volunteer as a tutor to assist students in lower grade levels with their studies.

The participating tutors would receive academic credit for their services. The plan includes a provision to encourage 11th and 12th grade students who are not achieving as well as they could academically to participate if it is determined that serving as tutors would improve their own academic performance.

“Pennsylvania is experiencing a considerable teacher shortage. One of the possible benefits of my tutoring proposal is that tutors might consider going into teaching after their experience as a tutor,” Freeman said.

A similar bill sponsored by Freeman during the 2023-24 session passed the House 141-60 and was approved by the Senate Education Committee, but it did not receive a final vote in the state Senate.