University at Buffalo relaunches Brainy Bulls tutor-mentoring program to support local students

This innovative program offers free virtual tutoring services to local students in the Buffalo Public Schools and Erie 1 BOCES, helping them accelerate learning, achieve academic success and build confidence in their studies.

Tutoring will be available this fall beginning on Oct. 1.

Brainy Bulls pairs each student with a current UB student who serves as a tutor-mentor, providing online tutoring sessions tailored to the student’s specific needs. Whether it’s English language arts, math, science or social studies, the tutor-mentors are equipped to offer comprehensive academic guidance, ensuring that each student can master essential skills, stay on track for graduation and gain confidence in their schoolwork.

“It’s not just about math or literacy. It is about trying to make a connection with kids because we know that students who have positive relationships with caring adults do better in academics,” said Wil Green, assistant dean of outreach and community engagement at GSE, who leads the program. 

• Grades 5-12 tutoring: Personalized sessions are available for students in three learning levels: 5th-6th, 7th-8th, and 9th-12th grades.
• Subject areas covered: Tutoring is available in English language arts, math, science and social studies.
• Appointment availability: Tutoring sessions are offered Tuesday through Thursday from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., with appointment time slots dependent on tutor-mentor availability.
• Qualified tutor-mentors: All tutor-mentors are current UB students who have been vetted, received culturally responsive training, and completed all NYS fingerprinting requirements. They earn volunteer or work-study hours or internship credit.
• Session structure: Each tutoring session lasts 40 minutes. Students are encouraged to come prepared with the work they need help with and specific questions to maximize the session’s effectiveness.
• Continuity and follow-up: While students may initially have different tutor-mentors for each session, efforts will be made to pair students with the tutor-mentor who best connects with them over time. Parents and guardians will receive follow-up notifications after each session and can provide feedback and request further communication if needed.

To receive tutoring services, participants must be students in Buffalo Public Schools or Erie 1 BOCES, have access to the internet and a computing/electronic device, and provide a valid email address. Beginning in late September, appointments can be scheduled at: https://ed.buffalo.edu/tutoring.

“The goal is to support students coming out of COVID-19. With concerns like student absenteeism impacting student achievement, we feel like the combination of the academic support and making a connection to an adult who is concerned about students’ academic development can really help improve outcomes for students,” said Green.

The Brainy Bulls program underscores GSE’s dedication to community engagement and educational excellence. It provides valuable resources to local students and fosters a culture of learning and mentorship.

The program was developed as part of the Biden-Harris administration's effort to introduce 250,000 tutors and mentors into American schools over the next three years, aiming to support students in their academic recovery following the disruptions caused by pandemic-era schooling. 

Partnerships for the program include New York State Mentoring as well as several UB partners, such as The Gifted Math Program, The Center for Literacy and Reading Instruction, Student Life, Financial Aid, Parking and Transportation, Career Services, and the UB Teacher Residency Program and Teacher Education Programs.