Academic Support for Every Learner

At the Kroc Center, we’re committed to meeting learners where they are—and helping them go further. We offer two complementary tutoring programs designed to support academic growth in distinct, impactful ways.
Next Step Learning provides structured academic enrichment using two evidence-based sensory cognitive programs to build foundational learning skills. Students strengthen abilities like sight word recognition, spelling, oral vocabulary, and dynamic mental imagery for comprehension. After an initial evaluation, each student receives a personalized learning plan, implemented in small-group, one-hour sessions at just $40 per session. Progress is carefully tracked by qualified instructors.

Program Highlights:
Evidence-based sensory cognitive curriculum
Individualized plans delivered in small-group format
One-hour sessions for $40
Progress monitored by trained professionals


TutorND, in partnership with the University of Notre Dame, provides free one-on-one tutoring grounded in the latest research on learning and cognition. Tutors participate in interdisciplinary design teams supported by experts in cognitive science, education, clinical psychology, and instructional coaching. Drawing from the IES What Works Clearinghouse and other proven strategies, TutorND supports a range of student goals—from foundational skills to enrichment and acceleration.
This initiative involves 20+ community and educational partners, including South Bend Community Schools, Head Start programs, the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Indiana, the Tolson Center, and ACE Teaching Fellows.
Together, Next Step Learning and TutorNDprovide a full spectrum of academic support—blending structured instruction and personalized mentorship to help every student thrive. Neil Carmichael