Partnering Aspiring Teachers with High-need Schools to Tutor Act of 2025; PATHS to Tutor Act of 2025
Summary
The "Partnering Aspiring Teachers with High-need Schools to Tutor Act of 2025" (PATHS to Tutor Act) aims to establish a grant program. This program will foster partnerships between teacher preparation programs, local educational agencies, and community-based organizations. The goal is to expand access to high-quality tutoring in hard-to-staff and high-need schools.
The bill authorizes the Secretary of Education to award competitive grants to local consortia. These grants will enable the consortia to implement high-quality tutoring programs in schools that need them most. The bill also emphasizes coordination with the Corporation for National and Community Service to create national service positions for tutors.
Funding of $500 million is authorized, with at least 85% allocated to direct student support. This includes stipends for tutors and mentors, transportation, meals, instructional materials, and connectivity resources.
Expected Effects
The PATHS to Tutor Act, if enacted, will likely increase the availability of tutoring services in high-need schools. It will also provide opportunities for aspiring teachers to gain practical experience. The interagency agreement with the Corporation for National and Community Service could further incentivize participation through national service positions and educational awards.
The Act could improve student outcomes in participating schools by providing targeted academic support. It may also strengthen the pipeline of qualified educators by providing valuable experience to those in educator preparation programs. The focus on research-based social-emotional learning practices, trauma-informed learning practices, and culturally and linguistically responsive practices could lead to more equitable and effective tutoring programs.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to high-quality tutoring for students in hard-to-staff and high-need schools.
- Provides practical experience and stipends for aspiring teachers and mentors.
- Potential improvement in student learning outcomes and academic performance.
- Strengthened partnerships between educational institutions, local agencies, and community organizations.
- Alignment of tutoring with local curriculum and standards, ensuring relevance and effectiveness.
Potential Disadvantages
- The effectiveness of the program will depend on the quality of implementation and the selection of local consortia.
- There is a risk that the funds may not be distributed equitably or efficiently.
- The program's success relies on the availability of qualified tutors and mentors.
- The definition of "high-quality tutoring" may be subject to interpretation and variation.
- Potential for administrative overhead and compliance costs associated with the grant program.
Constitutional Alignment
The PATHS to Tutor Act aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution's preamble, which aims to "promote the general Welfare." The Act also aligns with the Tenth Amendment, which reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, as it involves partnerships with local educational agencies. The federal government's role is limited to providing funding and guidance, while the implementation is primarily at the local level.
While education is not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution, the federal government has historically played a role in supporting education through funding and programs. This Act falls within that established precedent. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).