GLENDALE, CA – Glendale Unified’s innovative “Super Tutor” program has been recognized with a 2023 Golden Bell award from the California School Boards Association (CSBA). The award was presented during CSBA’s annual awards ceremony last week. The Golden Bell Award promotes excellence in education and school board governance by recognizing outstanding programs and practices. The Super Tutor program was awarded in the category “Closing the Opportunity Gap.”

Super Tutors is a peer tutoring program at GUSD middle and high schools. Student tutors are trained on effective tutoring practices and assigned a peer to support. Tutoring sessions take place before and after school and at lunch. A website helps students find the right tutor for their area of need. Tutoring services are provided to students at no cost, and Super Tutors are compensated for their time. For many Super Tutors, this is their first-ever job. 

“The Super Tutor program has a dramatic positive impact on our school communities. The program has been absolutely instrumental in providing GUSD students with much-needed academic intervention, especially after the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Glendale Unified Board of Education President Jennifer Freemon. “By receiving academic support directly from their own peers, students have an opportunity to connect in meaningful ways. Some of our Super Tutors have even been inspired by this experience to pursue careers in education.” 

This year marks the 44th anniversary of the Golden Bell Award. According to the CSBA website, “Golden Bell Awards reflect the depth and breadth of education programs and governance decisions supporting these programs that are necessary to address students’ changing needs.” 

For further information, please contact Kristine Nam at (818) 241-3111 x1218 or knam@gusd.net.