Bridging the Educational Gap in the Upper Valley

In rural areas like New Hampshire and Vermont, students face unique challenges in accessing quality education—limited resources, fewer advanced courses, and costly tutoring services create barriers to success. With declining college enrollment rates, these obstacles highlight an urgent need to support students in building a strong academic foundation. Without access to effective educational support, students often struggle not only with mastering subjects but also with developing the confidence, resilience, and critical thinking skills needed to succeed in college and beyond. Addressing these issues requires a shift toward comprehensive, accessible academic programs that prioritize both personal and academic growth, ultimately setting Upper Valley students on a more promising path forward.

Decline in College Enrollment in Upper Valley

In rural areas like New Hampshire and Vermont, where access to educational resources can be limited, these issues are even more pressing. Declining college enrollment rates highlight the need for a stronger academic foundation. New Hampshire, for example, has seen a notable drop in public college enrollment, down more than 13 percent since 2019—from 31,307 students to 27,056 in 2023. Similarly, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), Vermont’s total fall enrollment in postsecondary institutions decreased from 45,572 students in 2010 to 39,646 students in 2020, representing a decline of approximately 13 percent over the decade. This trend underscores the importance of expanding academic resources and support systems to help students successfully transition to higher education.

Barriers to Academic Success in Underserved Rural Areas

In underserved areas, students often have limited access to quality academic resources, face higher costs for tutoring, and have fewer opportunities for advanced courses and extracurriculars. Additionally, geographical isolation limits students’ access to high-quality learning centers and other academic services, which are more readily available in urban areas. Economic barriers in rural areas can further impact school funding, leading to disparities in the resources available to students. Research shows that students who participate in college-preparatory programs and have access to academic support services are more likely to succeed in higher education and beyond. Together, these factors hinder academic growth, reducing the opportunities for rural students to build a solid foundation for college and future careers.

Enhancing Tutoring for Deeper Learning and Skill Development

Traditional tutoring programs often focus narrowly on completing assignments and attempting to achieve subject mastery, which can leave students struggling with critical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. Conversely, studies have shown that a high-dosage, personalized approach to tutoring—where students engage in sessions multiple times per week—can yield significant improvements in academic performance. Research suggests that positive learning outcomes are especially enhanced when students are encouraged to teach the material back to their tutor, reinforcing their comprehension and retention of key concepts.

Another important feature of today’s learning environment is the virtual setting. Virtual tutoring has the unique advantage of expanding access to highly qualified tutors who bring not only expertise but also relatability to the learning experience. Virtual tutoring environments become especially beneficial when the tutor and student are close in age. This type of connection encourages students to feel comfortable asking questions, communicating goals, and staying engaged with the material. Additionally, peer-to-peer dynamics foster the development of essential soft skills. When students relate to their tutors, they are more likely to learn effective communication, time management, and organizational skills through active engagement and structured support.

Final Solutions for Upper Valley Students’ Academic Success

To address the complex academic challenges faced by Upper Valley students, Elev8Tutoring recommends targeted solutions:

• Personalized Student-Tutor Matchmaking Process: Connecting students with tutors whose personality traits and background align with the student’s unique learning needs not only improves academic outcomes but also fosters a supportive environment. Many of the problems that occur with tutoring sessions can be traced down to the roots of establishing a genuine connection between the tutor and student. If not done thoughtfully, a lack of a meaningful connection can lead to significant challenges later on. The tutors skillset, learning style, and background should align well with the student’s wants and needs. 
• Consistent Evaluation of Tutoring Sessions: Regular assessment and feedback loops ensure that each tutoring session meets high standards and adapts to the evolving needs of the student. Tutoring should not only identify a student’s challenges but also allow tutors to adjust their approach to best support individual progress. 

Elev8Tutoring believes that implementing these solutions will not only bolster academic performance but also empower students with the skills they need for long-term success—whether in college, their careers, or beyond.

Ben Jenkins ‘25 and Eli Kimche ‘25

Elev8Tutoring

www.elev8tutoring.com