Got questions? We got answers!
Scroll through to read our most commonly asked questions. Is your question still unanswered? Contact us at learntoread@learnupcenters.org.
General Program Information
What does a typical session look like?
A typical LearnUp lesson covers sounds, syllables, spelling, reading, comprehension, fluency, and writing, following the Orton-Gillingham scope and sequence but tailored to each student. Students use a magnetic board to practice phonics, spell and read nonsense syllables, and write high-frequency words dictated by the tutor. Half the session focuses on reading books that grow in difficulty and reinforce phonics, with comprehension practiced throughout. Each lesson ends with a 5-minute written response. Click here to read more about a typical lesson.
What curriculum do you teach?
We use the Tattum Reading method. Steve Tattum is LearnUp’s reading director and the founder of the Tattum Reading program. The program is a blend of nationally-recognized reading methods. LearnUp integrates the best practices of Orton-Gillingham based programs, speech therapy, phonics, whole language, and recommendations from the National Reading Panel.
Do you teach high school students?
Yes! We can teach anyone to read, from kindergarten through adulthood.
Would the tutor be consistent each day?
We always try to keep the same tutor for the entirety of their time in the program. A tutor change usually only occurs if there is a switch in time or their availability changes.
What training/experience does each tutor have?
All of our tutors complete intensive training before working with students. They go through a 45 hours training and must pass a competency assessment to start working with students. After that, they complete a 60-hour practicum where their sessions are supervised and they work with a variety of students across different levels and learning styles. Once they finish these 60 hours, they are certified by our Reading Director, Steve Tattum. Tutors also receive ongoing supervision and continuous professional development.
Is there homework?
We recommend families to do a short “homework” activity every night to solidify the student’s learning and to improve their fluency. The activity is called repeated readings. It should only take around 5 minutes a day.
Do we have to commit to the entirety of the program?
No, there is no required commitment. However, we do recommend committing to at least 20 sessions, as that’s typically when students and parents begin to see and feel meaningful progress. You’re welcome to stop the program at any time. Please note: occasionally we offer specific discounts that require upfront payment, those sessions are usually non-refundable and must be completed in the amount of time discussed.
Scheduling & Logistics
How long is each tutoring session?
All sessions are 50 minutes and start on the hour.
How many sessions do you recommend my student attends?
That depends on each student and where they are currently at. A good average is around 60-80 sessions. We conduct a brief 15-20 minute assessment before starting to give a better estimate along with potential goals in our program.
Do you tutor on the weekends?
No. Our tutors work Monday through Friday and we are closed on the weekends.
Can my student attend less than 5 days a week?
We strongly recommend that students attend 4–5 sessions per week. Our program is evidence-aligned, and research on how the brain learns to read shows that consistent repetition is key to building strong neural pathways.
Do you offer in person tutoring? What about virtual?
Yes, we offer in person sessions at 1426 Fillmore, Office #221, San Francisco, CA, 94115. Virtual sessions take place over zoom wherever a student has access to strong wifi, a computer or tablet, and a headset.
I am interested, what is the next step?
The next step is to schedule a LearnUp assessment! Assessments are 15–20 minutes long and free of charge. You can choose to do them in person at our San Francisco office or virtually over Zoom.
How does canceling a session work?
If you need to cancel a session, please keep in mind our 24-hour cancellation policy. Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance will not be charged. Any cancellations made within that window will incur the full session fee. This policy allows us to compensate our tutors for reserving that time, so we appreciate as much notice as possible.
Pricing & Costs
How much does each session cost?
Each session costs $115 per hour (50 minutes).
Do you offer any financial support?
We offer financial aid on a sliding scale model. Read more about our financial aid process here.
How does payment work? Are there payment plans?
Payment is made online by credit card. You’ll receive an email with instructions on how to set up your account and enter your payment information. Invoices are sent on the 1st and 16th of each month, based on the number of sessions attended during the prior two weeks. LearnUp accepts both credit card and ACH payments, and if you plan to use PayPal, please let us know in advance.
Do we have to purchase any materials ?
Nope, we provide all the materials needed for each session. For online sessions, we can share our screen and give remote control access. If you’d like, you’re also welcome to purchase physical copies of the books. Check them out here.
Parental Concerns
Do you see the same growth over virtual sessions as you do with in-person sessions?
Yes! Students have access to all the same materials, and sessions remain just as engaging and interactive. They practice using our multi-sensory digital phonics board through remote control access. Our data shows that, on average, virtual students achieve equal or even greater gains than those attending in person.
How do we know if our child is making progress in your program?
The tutor will issue a progress report after every set of 20 sessions. Within each 20-session interval, the tutor will administer a series of assessments and incorporate the scores into the report to demonstrate progress.
Do you see a negative association with reading arise from your sessions? How do your tutors handle resistance to coming and lack of confidence?
Learning to read is the solution to a positive association with reading. Students who struggle with reading in the classroom are the ones who have those negative feelings towards reading. Our tutors are skilled in handling resistance and building confidence. They emphasize each student’s progress during sessions. By constantly showcasing the strides they are making, we aim to foster a sense of achievement and positivity around reading. While students may have an initial hesitation, our experience shows that with consistent support, positive reinforcement, and a focus on progress, learners will develop a more confident and enthusiastic attitude towards reading.
Are there any past parents I can speak to about your program?
Yes! Just ask us, and we can provide contact information for past families you can reach out to.
