Close the Gap With Tutoring

Missouri families now have a powerful tool to enhance their children's education: the Close the Gap Grant program. This partnership between DESE and Odyssey (an online platform that helps states connect families to funding for education services), offers up to $1,500 for educational expenses to eligible families.

With a focus on supporting low income families (those whose income falls below 185 percent of the federal poverty level), this program is a significant step towards educational equity. According to the state statute, in order to qualify for the public funding you must be a Missouri resident and have a child enrolled in a K-12 public district or charter school.

If you are eligible and plan to request funds, you want to make sure you use them in the best way possible. Read on for more information about why tutoring is an excellent way to utilize these dollars.

Why Tutoring is Best Option for Close the Gap Grant in Missouri

Tutoring provides one-on-one support for your child in academic areas where they might be struggling. Tutoring companies like Varsity Tutors provide quality educational services that can be accessed through Odyssey's online marketplace. The comprehensive learning support makes tutoring an ideal choice for Missouri families looking to maximize this opportunity.

A personalized approach to learning can significantly impact a child's understanding and confidence in various subjects. Tutoring isn’t just about improving grades; it’s about supporting your child’s overall academic growth and development.

Continuous Learning

Students who have the opportunity to embrace a continuous learning approach develop positive, lasting study habits. It's not just about the hours they put in; it’s about making learning a consistent part of their daily life. This method helps children build a strong foundation in their subjects, making it easier to grasp new concepts and retain information.

It's especially beneficial for reinforcing study skills services that they can use both inside the classroom during the academic day as well as at home when working independently on homework or preparing for exams.

Comprehensive Support From Expert Tutors

Expertly trained tutors play an invaluable role in providing comprehensive educational support to students who need it most. Tutors are equipped to address the multifaceted needs of students across various subjects, inspiring children to set and achieve new learning goals. Tutors can provide support in a wide range of subjects including math, science, language arts, and essential study skills.

This ensures that students can find help in whichever area they need, whether it’s understanding complex concepts or developing effective study habits. The goal of tutoring is to offer well-rounded support that contributes to a student's overall academic success.

Personalized Learning Plans

When you work with Varsity Tutors through Odyssey's online marketplace, you'll get personalized learning plans that are tailored to meet the individual needs of each student. Tutors will create a learning plan based on the child's strengths, weaknesses, and academic goals.

This personalized approach pushes children to explore new areas of interest and challenge themselves further. By focusing on each student's unique learning style and preferences, these plans help build confidence and spark curiosity, making learning an engaging and enjoyable experience.

Unlimited Learning Resources

Additionally, Varsity Tutors provides unlimited access to plenty of learning resources. This includes live classes, instant tutoring for quick help, and a range of self-study tools. These resources are designed to address to the diverse needs of families, ensuring that every student can find something that suits their learning style.

Whether your child needs immediate assistance with homework or preparation for a big exam, these resources are available at any time. This is particularly beneficial for families who want to ensure their students have continuous support in their educational journey.

Other Allowable Educational Expenses Covered Under The Grant

The Close the Gap Grant in Missouri isn't just limited to tutoring; it also covers a variety of other key educational expenses to further support students' learning experiences.

Afterschool Educational Programs & Summer Camps: Afterschool programs and summer camps offer students additional opportunities to explore new interests, receive extra help in challenging subjects, or participate in activities that might not be available during regular school hours.

Instructional Resource Materials: The Close the Gap Grant program can also be used to purchase instructional materials to supplement a student's regular curriculum. They can include books, educational software, online subscriptions, and other tools that provide extra practice, reinforce key concepts, or offer advanced learning opportunities in various subjects.

Computer Equipment & Internet Access: In today's digital age, having the right technology is essential for educational success. The grant covers computer equipment, ensuring students have the necessary hardware and software for their studies. This could mean laptops, tablets, or other devices that facilitate online learning, research, and completion of assignments.

Get Support From Varsity Tutors With Close the Gap Funding From the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education + Odyssey

If you plan to receive funds through this grant, consider utilizing the funds for tutoring services to support your child's educational journey. Varsity Tutors' commitment to personalized, comprehensive learning support makes tutoring an ideal choice for Missouri families looking to maximize this opportunity.

Missouri's Close the Gap Grant program is more than just financial aid; it's an investment in the future of Missouri's children. By supporting continuous learning and providing access to high-quality resources, the program is helping to build a brighter, more educated future. You can learn more and browse the online marketplace here. 

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