Independent Learning Support
Providing BPS students with tutoring and mentoring support outside of class time
Supporting Independent Learning, Together
Our online mentoring model provides students more agency in requesting mentor support. Introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, our Independent Learning Support (ILS) model brings our core mentoring programs outside the “classroom” to better accommodate fluid education and shifting learning landscapes.
Students in grades 1-12 are able to participate in ILS through nomination of a parent/guardian, school staff member, or themselves if they are over the age of 18.
We’re proud to offer an alternative model that will provide students and mentors more flexibility in their matches.
What’s Independent Learning Support?
In the Independent Learning Support model, mentors are connected with Boston Public Schools students who have self-identified or been identified by their families as benefiting from extra, focused academic support. Once matched, mentors will meet with students on Google Meet or Zoom for a minimum of one hour per week for the duration of the school year.
In this model, mentoring sessions are not bound by school hours – students and mentors can meet at an agreed-upon time to review classwork, work on projects, and build skills in the student’s area of need.
Who Can Participate?
Independent Learning Support is open to Boston Public Schools students in grades 1st-12. Students can be nominated at any point throughout the year. Students under 18 must be nominated by a parent/guardian or school staff member. Students 18 and older may nominate themselves for support. To request an academic mentor, simply fill out the nomination form and identify a student who would benefit from extra help.