Charleston County School District launches a high‑intensity tutoring program with outcomes‑based contracting to accelerate student achievement

Charleston County School District (CCSD) announces a new High-Intensity Tutoring (HIT) initiative designed to deliver intensive academic support to students who need it most. The district will partner with a network of vetted tutoring providers using an outcomes-based contracting model—an innovative approach that ties payment for services directly to measurable student progress.

Under the new model, CCSD and tutoring providers agree in advance on clear, quantifiable outcomes such as gains on standardized assessments, improved reading levels, or demonstrated mastery of key skills before services are delivered. Providers are compensated based on the academic growth their students achieve, ensuring that resources are invested where they have the greatest impact on learning.

“Our students deserve tutoring programs that are not only high quality, but also proven to move the needle on achievement,” Superintendent of Schools Anita Huggins explained. “By linking payment to student results, we are ensuring accountability and focusing every dollar on what matters most, accelerating learning.”

“This outcomes-based approach protects taxpayers and strengthens our return on investment,” Chief Financial Officer Daniel Prentice added. “We are funding what works, rewarding providers who help students make real, measurable gains, and aligning our budget decisions with our academic goals.”

HIT will be delivered in small groups by in-person and virtual providers across core subjects. CCSD will tie provider payments to measurable student progress, with bonuses for the highest levels of growth, aligning incentives to drive strong academic gains.

“This initiative puts students first and ensures we spend every dollar wisely,” said Leah Whatley, Chair of the Board of Trustees’ Audit & Finance Committee. “It reflects our commitment to helping students succeed while being good stewards of the community’s resources.”