District introduces free Paper online tutoring service for students in Grades 6 to 12

Paper tutoring sign

The Minisink Valley School District has partnered with Paper, an online tutoring service, to give students in grades 6 through 12 the ability to access live tutors seven days a week, 24 hours a day, without any cost to families.

Paper tutors are trained to conduct expert, academic support in a secure, chat-based platform. They don’t give answers, but expertly help students better understand the material they’re reaching out about and guide them through problem solving by asking thoughtful questions.  Students are matched with tutors moments after their request is submitted.

All interactions between Paper tutors and students are recorded. Tutoring services are available in English, Spanish, French and Mandarin with communication taking place only via text, voice or voice messaging so access to tutoring can be based on the student’s preference.

paper artworkA additional tool for academic success and achievement

Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Christian Ranaudo said the Paper tutoring service complements the comprehensive in-class and after school support for students.

“We believe Paper will be an extension of our faculty’s thorough daily instruction and the additional support they provide to students during times when school isn’t in session,” he said. “We’re grateful for their support of this new tool to help support their students’ academic success and achievement.”

District officials know students have busy schedules once they leave school for the day and equally believe Paper has the ability to provide any necessary support based on times that work for them. Students can log in anytime they need help and from anywhere they have internet access, whether it’s by Smartphone, Chromebook or other devices.

paper artwork“We know our students are involved with important co-curricular and sports activities after school,” added Mr. Ranaudo. “They may also be involved with important community volunteer work or jobs, or have equally critical family obligations. It’s probable students fit in homework and studying at different times of the day and night. We believe Paper’s ability to provide immediate support and feedback will be tremendously helpful no matter where or when they’re studying.”

Faculty have access to students’ tutoring activity

In addition to students, Minisink Valley middle and high school faculty also have Paper accounts and will have the ability to review their students’ tutoring activity, giving them insight into their students’ learning moments on the Paper platform.

“We support the district’s introduction of Paper,” said Minisink Valley Teachers Association President Theresa Uhelsky. ”Paper’s flexibility and versatility gives our students and their families an additional means to support and maximize their academic proficiency and achievement when they’re not in the classroom environment and educational preparedness when they’re in the classroom. .Plus, that assistance is documented for us to review as well. There’s many benefits.”

Over 400 school districts nationwide partner with Paper for on-demand tutoring services, with an estimated 100 additional districts joining this school year.  Its services have been profiled and spotlighted by national news organizations, including Forbes, Today and Bloomberg News. Paper is a recipient of numerous national educational technology awards.

The tutoring service is funded through the district’s American Rescue Plan Act (APRA) grant.

Learn more by being involved

Parents/guardians are encouraged to sign in with their child to learn more about how Paper can assist them. They can also reach out directly by emailing to papertutoring@minisink.com or  parents@paper.com with any questions.

To learn more:

Paper homepage: Paper Online Tutoring
Paper app login: Paper Student Login
Who are Paper tutors: Paper Tutors