Nebraska SMART Offers Free Tutoring for Rural K-12 Students

Sep 17, 2024 / Judi Yorges Director of Strategic Initiatives and Communications Nebraska State College System

LINCOLN, NE – Nebraska SMART (Success Made Accessible through Rural Tutoring) is expanding its mission to provide high-quality, free tutoring services to K-12 students across rural Nebraska school districts. The program is designed to enhance student success by connecting them with dedicated teacher education candidates from Chadron State, Peru State, and Wayne State Colleges.

"This initiative offers vital academic support to students in rural communities while simultaneously enriching the educational experience for our teacher education candidates," said Dr. Paul Turman, Chancellor of the Nebraska State College System. "By participating in Nebraska SMART, these future educators gain hands-on experience, refining their teaching skills and deepening their commitment to serving Nebraska's schools. This creates a lasting impact on the future of education in our state."

Program Expansion and Eligibility

Following a successful pilot semester, Nebraska SMART has broadened its reach. Starting this fall, the program now serves students from all school districts affiliated with the Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association (NRCSA), as well as those in districts supported by Educational Service Units 1, 4, and 13, and several other select rural districts. A full list of eligible districts is available on the Program website.

How the Program Works

Tutoring services are delivered online, allowing students or parents to schedule sessions between Monday and Thursday. Students can either book a specific appointment or take advantage of on-demand tutoring, where they are matched with the next available tutor. Tutors are qualified teacher education candidates who have been admitted to their college's teacher education program, passed background checks, and received comprehensive training.

Whether students need help with homework or wish to explore specific subjects in greater depth, Nebraska SMART ensures they are paired with tutors who specialize in their grade level and subject area.

Learn More and Register

For more information or to register for tutoring, click here.

Nebraska SMART is funded through a grant awarded by the Nebraska Department of Education to the Nebraska State College System, underscoring the state's commitment to improving educational outcomes for students in rural communities.