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Academic Approach

High-Impact Tutoring Characteristics

Academic Approach has earned the National Student Support Accelerator (NSSA) Tutoring Program Design Badge. This program has shared documented evidence that their program design fulfills the research-backed core characteristics of high-impact tutoring.

Please see Tutoring Program Design Badge  for more details about how a program earns the Badge and the Tutoring Quality Standards for more information on all high-impact tutoring characteristics.

Organization and Contact

Organization Type
For Profit
Headquarter Location (City, State)
Chicago, IL
Contact Name
Amanda Aisen
Contact Email
amanda.aisen@academicapproach.com

Program Overview

Mission

Our mission is defined by a deep commitment to student success. Founded by Matthew Pietrafetta, Ph.D., Academic Approach is not just a tutoring service, but a mentorship platform dedicated to building student skills and confidence while bridging essential curriculum gaps.

We aim not just to enhance test scores, but to cultivate well-rounded, resilient learners capable of overcoming any academic challenge. Our mission is grounded in the belief that true learning extends far beyond mere test-taking, propelling students to future success in their educational journeys and their lives.

Program Description

Since 2001, Academic Approach has pioneered personalized, skills-based test preparation and tutoring. Upholding the principle Tests are Standardized. Students are Not.™, we design custom programs for each student. Our approach goes beyond test scores, nurturing lifelong learning and empowering students to reach their full potential.

We offer personalized one-on-one, small group, and classroom academic and test preparation instruction for middle and high school students. We kick-start our tutoring programs with analysis of a student or school's academic and testing needs. This initial exploration involves a diagnostic test tailored to a student's academic level: ACT, SAT, or a high school admissions practice test. For those seeking academic support, we delve into a comprehensive review of previous tests or quizzes to pinpoint specific learning needs. This thorough examination allows us to understand each student's unique academic profile, setting the stage for a personalized tutoring program crafted to their distinct needs and learning style.

We believe that every student deserves a tailored approach to learning. Whether a student or cohort requires a few lessons or more in-depth instruction, we design a program to identify high-impact gaps in skills and strategies, match students to an instructor who provides a personalized teaching experience, and leverage our exceptional curriculum to help master the most impactful skills. Throughout a program, we consistently guide and motivate students to become more confident, successful learners and test takers. Through ongoing support, we aim to foster growth that extends beyond the classroom, preparing students for a lifetime of learning.

Type of service
Tutoring Program
Technology Platform
Year Started
2001
States of Operation
Illinois,
Virtual
Operation Locations
Chicago, Winnetka

Students and Offerings

Most recent number of students served
1,000-4,999
Grade Levels
6th Grade,
7th Grade,
8th Grade,
9th Grade,
10th Grade,
11th Grade,
12th Grade,
Post secondary
Subject Offered
English Language Arts (ELA),
Math,
Reading,
Science,
Social Studies,
Other
Other subjects
Computer Science, Foreign Languages, Economics, Study Skills
Languages Offered
English

Delivery Model and Staffing

Delivery Mode
Blended,
In-Person
Setting
During School,
Out of School
Tutor-Student Ratio
1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4
Number of Weeks Per Program
6 weeks or less, 7-12 weeks,13-20 weeks, 20-38 weeks ,> 38 weeks
Number of Sessions Per Week
One day per week, Two days per week, Three days per week
Number of Minutes Per Session
30-45 minutes, 46-60 minutes, 61-90 minutes, 91-120 minutes
Type of Tutor
Professional tutors receiving 30+ hours of training
Family Engagement
Yes
Family Engagement Description

To support scheduling, Sharing academic progress, Goal setting and monitoring progress toward goals

Customer and Cost

Customer Type
District, Nonprofit, Parent, School, Student
Cost to District/ School/ Non-Profit
$2,400-$2999

Research Evidence

Randomized controlled trial (RCT) study conducted?
No
Quasi-experimental (QED) study conducted?
Yes