While Albany's 51 schools across 13 school districts may use various reading curricula, not all implement Susan Barton specifically. Many students in the Albany area benefit from Susan Barton tutoring as a supplement to classroom instruction or as an alternative approach when traditional methods aren't working. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction with a tutor trained in Susan Barton can be tailored to your child's specific needs, regardless of what their school uses.

The Susan Barton system addresses the root causes of reading difficulties by teaching phonemic awareness, phonics, and decoding in a structured, multi-sensory way. Many struggling readers have gaps in foundational skills that classroom instruction may not address, especially with typical student-teacher ratios like Albany's 14.7:1. Personalized tutoring allows a tutor to identify exactly where a student's reading breaks down and rebuild those skills systematically.

Yes, the Susan Barton Reading System is specifically designed with dyslexic learners in mind. It uses explicit, systematic phonics instruction and multi-sensory techniques that align with how dyslexic brains process written language. Working with a tutor trained in Susan Barton provides the intensive, individualized attention that dyslexic students often need to develop strong reading skills and build confidence.

In an initial session, a tutor will assess your student's current reading level, identify specific strengths and gaps, and explain how the Susan Barton approach addresses their needs. They'll introduce foundational concepts and establish a baseline so you can track progress over time. This personalized assessment ensures that tutoring is tailored to your child's unique learning style and challenges.

Many students see noticeable improvements in decoding and confidence within 4-8 weeks of consistent tutoring, though the timeline depends on the severity of reading challenges and how frequently sessions occur. Sustained progress requires regular practice and reinforcement, and tutors can provide strategies for home practice between sessions. The structured, step-by-step nature of Susan Barton means students build skills that compound over time.

Look for tutors who have completed formal training and certification in the Susan Barton Reading System, as this ensures they understand the methodology deeply and can implement it correctly. Additional credentials like teaching certifications, special education backgrounds, or experience with dyslexia are valuable. When you connect with Varsity Tutors, we match you with tutors who have the expertise and training to deliver effective Susan Barton instruction.

Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows a tutor to move at your student's pace, spend extra time on challenging concepts, and adjust teaching methods to match their learning style—something that's difficult in a classroom setting. A tutor can also provide immediate feedback and correction, ensure consistent practice of skills before moving forward, and address gaps that may have been missed in group instruction. This individualized approach is especially powerful for students who need explicit, structured reading instruction.