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Does Math Tutoring Really Work? What Parents Need to Know

Math Education & College Readiness
June 17, 2025•2 min read

Does Math Tutoring Really Work? What Parents Need to Know

If you’re a parent wondering whether math tutoring is truly effective—or just another expense—you’re not alone. The short answer: yes, it works. But understanding why is key.

Let’s break down a powerful concept in education: Bloom’s 2 Sigma Problem, and how it explains tutoring’s ability to transform student outcomes.

🔍 The Science Behind Tutoring: Bloom’s 2 Sigma Problem

Educational researcher Benjamin Bloom found that students with 1-on-1 tutoring performed two standard deviations better than classroom peers. In short, a typical tutored student scored better than 98% of the rest.

What made it effective?

  • Personalized instruction

  • Immediate feedback

  • Real-time progress checks

  • Confidence-building support

📚 Learn more: Bloom’s 2 Sigma Problem

💡 Why Classrooms Can’t Match It

Even great teachers juggle 25+ students. Tutoring solves this by letting students:

  • Ask questions freely

  • Move at their own pace

  • Master skills before moving on

🧠 Tutoring Isn’t Just for Struggling Students

Many families use tutoring to:

  • Prepare for exams (PSAT, SAT, AP)

  • Get ahead in class

  • Reinforce what’s already being taught

Tutoring isn’t a rescue mission—it’s a strategy.

✨ What Progress Looks Like

It’s not just better test scores. Parents tell us:

“He finally believes he’s good at math.”
“She doesn’t panic before tests anymore.”

Confidence is the real win.

📚 Our Approach Mirrors the Research

At Mtn. Scholars Tutoring, we:

  • Track progress every session

  • Adjust instruction weekly

  • Support students with clarity and care

Subjects we cover:

  • Fractions to Pre-Calculus

  • Word problems

  • Test prep

With tools like automated reminders and parent updates, we make the experience smooth for families too.

📞 Ready to See If Tutoring Is Right for Your Student?

Book a free 20-minute strategy session today to explore your goals, ask questions, and discover what tutoring could look like for your child — no pressure, no hard sell.

Book Your Free Strategy Session



Mtn. Scholars Tutoring helps middle and high school students build confidence and excel in math. Serving families in Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, and surrounding mountain communities, we provide personalized one-on-one tutoring in math. Our mission is to make math less stressful and more accessible, helping students succeed in high school, college, and beyond.

Mtn. Scholars Tutoring

Mtn. Scholars Tutoring helps middle and high school students build confidence and excel in math. Serving families in Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, and surrounding mountain communities, we provide personalized one-on-one tutoring in math. Our mission is to make math less stressful and more accessible, helping students succeed in high school, college, and beyond.

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