Tutoring can help students stop loping through semester
Our tutors often see students who are bright and capable, but have fallen behind because they have lost focus. Some lose focus because of after school activities, or they put it in cruise control hoping they can ride out the rest of the semester. Many of these students promise their parents they will catch up, "Don't worry about it, I got it under control!"

I suppose that many students are able to pull it off. I know I did a few times back in school. But we see the ones who do not, and often they still think they can keep using the same habits that got them behind as the basis for their catchup. The tutor usually has to level with the student by asking questions about what the student plans to do, and how he/she plans to catch up. If the plans are vague, then the tutor has a starting point for the tutoring. The student must have a plan to catch up, and then stick with that plan. Catching up must be a priority that ranks at least in the top 3 immediate goals, if not #1.

The tutor and student need to get along, but a student will respect a tutor who pushes a little bit and comes to the table with a plan. Parents often love this, as it is a relief-they no longer have to be the point person for developing and initiating the plan. They can play the role of helping the plan go smoothly, and our tutors always encourage parent involvement where helpful. But that first session can be a bit of a wake up call for the student. When a coasting ride comes to a halt, there is almost always a jolt. And that can be a very good thing!