Supplemental Education Services (SES)

Supplemental Education Services Providers

Questions for Families to ask SES Providers

Where does the provider offer tutoring services?
Providers may offer services in schools, public libraries, provider's office, community centers and places of worship.

When does the provider offer services?
Students can receive tutoring services after school or on Saturdays.

How often and how long will my child receive tutoring?
It could be every day to a few times a week.  Make sure you know how many sessions and how long those sessions will continue.

How are students grouped during tutoring?
Some providers tutor small groups of students while others offer one-to-one instruction or teach through computer programs.

What is the provider's track record in raising student achievement?
Providers must be able to demonstrate that they have a track record of raising student achievement in academic subjects such as reading, math and science.  Look for evidence in the form of:

  • Results on tests developed by the provider

  • Satisfaction surveys of students or parents

  • Improved classroom grades

  • Improved attendance rates

  • Better homework completion

  • Written testimony by parents or teachers

Who will be instructing my child?  What are their qualifications?
Ask about the backgrounds and qualifications of staff that will be working with your child.  

Do they have experience teaching reading, math or science?

What subject areas do your services address?
Make sure that the provider you choose offers services focused on the subject area your child is having trouble with (reading, math or science).

Can instructors speak languages other than English?
Ask whether the provider you are considering can offer services in your child's first language.

Can the provider meet the learning needs of students with disabilities?
If your child has disabilities, be sure that the provider you are interested in can accommodate those disabilities.  All services provided should be consistent with your child's individualized education program (IEP).

Does the provider measure student needs?
Make sure your child's progress will be measured in a way that will be clear and useful for you.

How will the provider keep me informed of my child's progress?
The provider is required to establish goals for your child in a meeting with you. Providers are also required to report back to you about your child's progress towards these goals.

What happens if I choose a provider, but it does not help my child?
Be sure to ask what procedures are in place if your child does not show improvement after working with a provider.  Ask your district if and when you can switch to another provider if you are unhappy with a provider's services. Some providers may offer guarantees of improved student performance. Ask if the program offers such a guarantee and find out what happens if the guarantee is not met.