Tutored by Teachers

Tutored by Teachers (TbT) emerged in 2020, a public benefit company with a clear and ambitious mission: to close the persistent academic opportunity gaps in K-12 education. Founded by Shaan Akbar and Rahul Kalita, the company was born out of a desire to provide high-need students with personalized, high-impact virtual instruction led by experienced, certified teachers. From its inception, TbT focused on an evidence-based approach, partnering directly with schools and districts to identify students who would benefit most from supplemental, small-group learning. This model was designed not only to accelerate student learning but also to offer teachers fair compensation and opportunities for professional growth within the company.

The company's journey began with a commitment to leveraging technology to connect highly qualified educators with students across the nation, regardless of geographical barriers. Early on, TbT concentrated on developing a robust platform capable of delivering live, synchronous, and video-based tutoring sessions. A key differentiator was the emphasis on maintaining consistent small groups, allowing the same teacher to build relationships with their students throughout the program, fostering responsive and tailored instruction. As TbT grew, it expanded its offerings to include a range of programs such as Virtual Intervention, Tutoring for All, Summer Academy, and even support for teacher vacancies, ensuring that learning continuity could be maintained. The focus remained steadfastly on core subjects like Math and English Language Arts (ELA), with curriculum meticulously aligned to state standards and customized to the specific needs of partner schools and their student populations. This dedication to personalized learning and measurable outcomes quickly garnered attention, leading to significant growth and partnerships with numerous school districts and charter networks.