Freeman bill would establish tutoring program in all Pa. public schools

Rep. Robert L. Freeman    September 29, 2021

HARRISBURG, Sept. 29 – In an effort to improve academic performance in Pennsylvania’s public schools, state Rep. Robert Freeman is introducing legislation that would provide students in 11th and 12th grade with academic credit for tutoring elementary school-aged children.

“Tutoring is a time-honored and cost-effective way to enhance academic performance for the student being tutored and the student who serves as a tutor,” said Freeman, D-Northampton.

“The benefits of high school students tutoring elementary students is abundant. Tutoring can increase good study habits, improve academic performance, boost self-esteem and put students in charge of their own learning process as they pass that knowledge onto younger students. The students being tutored would get the extra attention they need to improve their academic performance and younger students are typically more receptive to learning from a high school student who would serve as a mentor,” he said.

Freeman said his legislation (H.B. 1933) would require the state Board of Education to establish a tutoring program, which would provide academic credit to students in 11th and 12th grades for tutoring pupils in grades one to six.

School districts would be able to implement the program at little or no cost to taxpayers and it would foster a sense of community and pride in students, according to Freeman.

House Bill 1933 was referred to the House Education Committee for consideration.