Purpose: This guide outlines how to select the appropriate type of communication to strengthen collaboration, improve instructional alignment, and maximize student support. Use it to make intentional, strategic communication decisions.
Summary of Tiers
| Tier 1: Passive Asynchronous Digital Communication | No direct communication is needed, making this the least time-intensive option for teachers and tutors. Ideal for out-of-school tutoring programs or those serving students from multiple schools. Grant tutors view-only access to a shared digital folder with classroom materials to passively align tutoring with in-class instruction. |
| Tier 2: Active Asynchronous Digital Communication | Tier 2 enables direct but asynchronous communication between teachers and tutors through comments and shared updates. It allows both parties to ask questions and align on student goals without needing live meetings. Best suited for programs with engaged teachers but limited time for regular in-person collaboration. |
| Tier 3: Active Synchronous Collaborative Communication | Tier 3 adds synchronous communication (virtual or in-person), allowing for real-time problem-solving, deeper alignment with lesson plans, and quicker feedback loops. This level of coordination helps position tutoring as a true extension of classroom instruction. Best for in-school, high-dosage programs with dedicated tutoring blocks and staff capacity to support regular meetings. |
Tier 1: Passive Asynchronous Digital Communication
Teachers Share:
- Classroom Materials (Shared Digital Drive):
- Lesson Plans
- Lesson Materials (notes, slides)
- Student Materials (worksheets, homework)
- Assessments (with keys/rubrics)
- Updated Curricular Materials
- Student Data (Digital Drive/Tutor Accounts):
- Formative and Summative Assessments
- Class Grades and Grade Breakdowns
- Attendance Data
- Assigned Online Programs (e.g., Khan Academy, Lexia)
- Individual login credentials for digital platforms for each tutor
Tutors Share:
- Tutoring Session Notes (via spreadsheet, doc, or email):
- Academic objectives and rationale
- Content covered and materials used
- Assignments reviewed
- Assessment data (if any)
- Attendance
- Behavioral engagement and follow-up
Tier 2: Active Asynchronous Digital Communication
Teachers Share:
- Comment on Shared Materials:
- Highlight key methods or common misconceptions
- Identify priority assignments or assessment insights
- Update calendars or deadlines
Tutors Ask:
- Clarification on instructional methods or assessment criteria
- Suggestions for prioritizing assignments and concepts
- Support strategies for student-specific needs
Tutors Share:
- Interactive Tutoring Notes:
- Questions on content focus and upcoming needs
- Updates on attendance and behavior
- Requests for support or strategies
Teachers Comment:
- Clarify expectations and teaching methods
- Suggest alternatives for support
- Share student-specific context or follow-up needs
Tier 3: Active Synchronous Collaborative Communication
Teachers Share:
- Next Week’s Lesson Plans (Weekly):
- Daily objectives and methods
- Key vocabulary and rigor level
- Assessment expectations and examples
- Professional Expertise:
- Misconceptions, barriers, and student needs
- Alternative strategies and stretch questions
- Future Planning:
- Opportunities for tutoring to support exams, make-up work, or goal-setting
Tutors Share:
- Progress-to-Goal Updates:
- Academic and behavioral strengths and struggles
- Root cause analysis and next steps
- Next Week’s Tutoring Plans:
- Target student rosters
- Session objectives and methods
- Planned assessments and materials
- Engagement strategies