Beyond Basics

Transforming
Lives
Through
Literacy

One-on-One Tutoring for Students K-12

Students Achieve Grade Level Growth
in an Average of Six Weeks!

Online
Learning

Virtual Tutoring Program

A 6-week one-on-one reading program delivered entirely online. Your child is matched with a trained tutor who guides them through a proven literacy curriculum. All you need is a computer and internet access. $75 per session.

Pre/Post Reading Assessments: Regular $50.00 , Now FREE

Register today and receive a $100 coupon toward tutoring!

In Person
Learning

On-Site Tutoring Solutions

Beyond Basics partners with K–12 schools, juvenile programs, workforce development, and college/career readiness initiatives to deliver high-impact literacy tutoring where it’s needed most. Our certified tutors provide one-on-one instruction directly within your classrooms and communities. Enrichment Programs Included*

If you’re an educator, program director, or community leader — let’s work together to close the literacy gap.

The Gold Star Standard to Reading Proficiency™

Beyond Basics helps students achieve grade-level improvement in as little as six weeks by combining these core components:

Individualized Assessment

Each student begins with a comprehensive reading assessment using a nationally recognized diagnostic tool, resulting in a personalized literacy “prescription” that guides their one-on-one tutoring plan.

One-on-One Live Tutoring

Students receive daily, personalized instruction from certified, Tattum-trained tutors who are equipped with the tools and techniques to address each learner’s specific needs and pace.

Phonics-Based Curriculum

Our method integrates all five components of literacy endorsed by the National Council on Teacher Quality: Phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.

Unlock the Power to Read BetterFasterWith ConfidenceWith Ease
Beyond Basics is a Trusted Partner in 60+ Schools and Community Locations
0 +
2008–2022 Longitudinal Study: 85% of Students Advanced at Least One Grade Level
0 %
Over 15,000 Students have been Served through our One-on-One Tutoring
0 +

News & Events

See More News >>

2025 Literacy Luncheon

Wednesday, May 7, 2025

Join us to honor those who are making an impact in Michigan and beyond!

11:00am – 1:30pm
Detroit Athletic Club 241 Madison Ave. Detroit MI 48226

Complimentary Guest Parking, DAC Dress Code – No Denim

Going Above and Beyond

Founded in 1999, Beyond Basics is a national non-profit organization dedicated to helping students unlock the power of reading—and so much more.

At Beyond Basics, We teach the foundational skills needed to decode words and read fluently. But we don’t stop there. Beyond Basics goes above and beyond traditional tutoring by providing students with the tools, experiences, and encouragement to grow into confident, curious, and capable learners. Through enrichment programs like story writing and publishing, fine arts projects, and lessons inspired by master artists, students deepen comprehension and connect learning to the world around them. Our Expanding Horizons initiative ensures every child has what they need to thrive—from school supplies and winter coats to field trips and mentorship opportunities with positive role models and community leaders. These experiences broaden perspectives, build vocabulary, and inspire a lifelong love of learning. At Beyond Basics, literacy is just the beginning—we help students find their voice, their confidence, and a greater sense of what’s possible.

Pamela Good

President
Beyond Basics

Structured Literacy Tutoring

Our proven, phonics-based curriculum helps students achieve grade-level reading in as little as six weeks through individualized, multisensory instruction.

Academic Enrichment

Programs like our Publishing Center and Art with the Masters foster creativity, build vocabulary, and increase comprehension. Students write and publish their own books and explore global cultures through art.

Expanding Horizons

Through meaningful field trips, mentorship, and community partnerships, students gain confidence, explore new ideas, and build real-world connections that broaden their understanding of what’s possible.

What is the Literacy Gap?

Any student more than one grade level behind falls into “the literacy gap”. For those in the gap, the educational model does not include the intensive help they need to achieve grade level reading.

A Nation At A Risk

NAEP: National Assessment of Educational Progress Reading Results. Percentage of 8th grade students below reading level. (Nationsreportcard.gov, 2019)

2008-2022 Longitudinal Study

The findings from our longitudinal study (2008-2022) validate the impact of the Beyond Basics method to eradicate illiteracy. The outcomes show that students are capable of reading. Preview key insights, access the press kit, or download the full report.

Advancing Literacy Nationwide

For over 25 years, Beyond Basics has employed a structured literacy approach, incorporating multi-sensory techniques and evidence-based practices. Our method is comprehensive and firmly grounded in phonics, ensuring students receive a thorough and sensory-rich learning experience. 

Make an Impact

Empower the Next Generation Through Education: Join a Mission-Driven Team

Use your skills to change lives. Whether you’re working one-on-one with students or supporting our mission behind the scenes, every role at Beyond Basics helps unlock a child’s future. Be part of something bigger.

Fuel the Future of Literacy:
Your Support Changes Lives

Your support makes it possible for students to gain the literacy skills, confidence, and experiences they need to thrive. Every donation helps open new doors—academically and beyond.

Sponsor a student for $42 per month in our Scholars program (students reading one grade-level behind).

Thank you for making a difference for our students.

Be the Spark for LiteracyLearningEquityOpportunity

Featured Videos

Beyond Basics Announces Longitudinal Study Results
Hear the announcement of our longitudinal study presented at the Mackinac Policy Conference.
CBS nEWS
INTERVIEW

Pamela Good, CEO of Beyond Basics, joined CBS news Detroit to discuss the impact the draft is having on the organization.

Joique Bell Starts Literacy Initiative in Benton Harbor
Joique Bell, former Detroit Lions running back, is on a mission to tackle the literacy problem in his hometown in partnership with Beyond Basics.
Eradicating Illiteracy

America’s most precious resources our new generation our kids our children… www.literacyisforeveryone.com