Nearly 44 percent of U.S. students started the 2023–24 school year behind grade level, with high-poverty districts experiencing twice the learning loss of wealthier communities. Teach For America’s Ignite program tackles this challenge by providing research-backed, high-frequency, small-group tutoring during the school day through trained fellows. In Dayton, Ignite partners with Dayton Leadership Academies, where more than 90 percent of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. Early results from the program show 73 percent of participants met or exceeded achievement targets. Funds will be used to support the recruitment, training and coaching of fellows, as well as stipends and program evaluation, to ensure delivery of personalized tutoring that strengthens foundational math skills. This investment will help Dayton students close learning gaps and build the skills needed for long-term success.
