From Farm to Fame: How One Tutor’s Grassroots Efforts Paid Off

14 Apr 2025 3 min read No comments Tutoring
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Ever wondered what it takes to not just survive but thrive in the tutoring world? Well, buckle up, because we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of running a successful tutoring business, straight from the horse’s mouth—or should I say, from Cheryl’s farm. As an expert tutor and coach, I’ve seen the highs and lows of this journey, and today, we’re unpacking the strategies that can help you turn your passion for teaching into a flourishing enterprise.

The Reading Crisis: A Call to Action for Tutors

In a recent podcast, Cheryl from Tutoring with Cheryl highlighted a stark statistic from the Department of Education: only 30% of third graders in the U.S. are proficient readers. This reading crisis underscores the urgent need for effective tutoring services. As tutors, we are at the forefront of this battle, helping students overcome hurdles like Dyslexia. It’s our responsibility to equip ourselves with the tools and knowledge to address these challenges head-on.

Key Points:1. Understanding the Reading Crisis: With 70% of third graders struggling with reading, tutors must be prepared to address this widespread issue effectively.

2. Marketing Strategies: Successful tutoring businesses require a solid marketing plan, whether through grassroots efforts or digital platforms.

3. Continuous Learning and Collaboration: Engaging with other educators and tutors through events and online platforms can enhance your skills and expand your network.

Marketing Your Tutoring Business: From Grassroots to Digital

Marketing isn’t just for big corporations; it’s crucial for tutors too. Cheryl shared her experience with grassroots marketing, from placing ads in local newspapers to using yard signs to drive traffic to her website. But it’s not just about visibility; it’s about strategy. Whether you’re using social media or Google Analytics, every action should be intentional. Remember, your business is as much about teaching as it is about running a small business, and that includes mastering the art of marketing.

Leveraging Technology: Google Classroom and Beyond

Technology can be a game-changer for tutors. Cheryl’s enthusiasm for Google Classroom is infectious. She uses it as a learning hub for her students, offering everything from Google Meet links to personalized libraries. Her Google Classroom Boot Camp, priced at just $45, is a testament to how technology can streamline and enhance your tutoring services. But it’s not just about Google Classroom; it’s about understanding and utilizing the latest tech trends, like AI, to make your life easier and your teaching more effective.

Whatever you’re going to do as far as marketing your business, you have to do it with intention. You have to kind of have a strategy involved and try your strategy, and if it doesn’t work, then you pivot and you try something else.

Collaborating with Fellow Educators: A Path to Growth

One of the most enlightening parts of Cheryl’s podcast was her emphasis on collaboration. By connecting with other educators, like Tina McMillan from Atypical Tutors and Kelly Michelle Dramy, Cheryl gains fresh perspectives and insights that enrich her own practice. These connections aren’t just about networking; they’re about mutual growth and learning. Whether it’s through monthly meetings, podcasts, or events like Kelly’s Tutor Buddies, engaging with your peers can lead to new strategies and a stronger community.

You show up to make those connections so you can learn about other tutors, decide if they might be a good fit for your students, learn new things, and grow in confidence as an educator.

Empowering Students and Parents: The Heart of Tutoring

At the core of every tutoring session is the student and their family. Cheryl’s approach to engaging with parents through her newsletter and offering free “meet the tutor” sessions is a brilliant way to build trust and rapport. By understanding the unique challenges each student faces, whether it’s **dyscalculia** **https://learningsuccess.ai/dyscalculia/** or a general struggle with reading, tutors can tailor their approach to meet individual needs. This personalized attention, coupled with a growth mindset and an understanding of neuroplasticity, can transform a student’s learning journey. Remember, as parents, your involvement and expectations play a crucial role in shaping your child’s future. It’s our job as tutors to guide and empower both students and their families, dispelling the myth that learning disabilities are fixed and unchangeable. The villain here is the outdated belief that brains don’t change, but by embracing the power of neuroplasticity and fostering a growth mindset, we can help every child reach their full potential. Join the Learning Success affiliate program to enhance your tutoring services and boost your income while helping your students overcome learning challenges.

Laura Lurns
Author: Laura Lurns

Find me on X https://x.com/lauralurns