GO’s mission
We believe:
Every child needs a champion.
Every child can achieve success in school and life.
Every student deserves access to fair and equitable education support.
GO's team of experienced educators provides free one-on-one tutoring and mentorship to economically disadvantaged ICSD students in grades two through eight. GO tutors integrate themselves into all facets of their student's academic experience and advocate for their well-being. The professional, individualized tutoring, social-emotional guidance, and enrichment services provided to students and caregivers ensure that every participant feels seen, heard, and supported.
GO Students Receive 4,200 Hours of Additional Academic Support
Students are referred to GO based on their academic and financial needs. Once paired with a private tutor at no cost, students embark on a journey that lasts through middle school. Each student receives two one-hour tutoring sessions per week over 30 weeks, resulting in 60 additional hours of individualized academic support and care in a safe and nurturing after-school environment. Tutoring takes place on-site at the child's school, facilitating a smooth end-of-day transition for students. This consistent support profoundly impacts a child's academic trajectory.
“My son is ready to step up to the challenge of middle school, and I really thank his tutor for that. I’m a single mother, and I’m really grateful for the support and consistency.”
“My son came home after tutoring and told me: “I love English now! I’ve found my genre. It’s SUSPENSE!” And he went on and on about the book he’s reading. I’m not sure what’s clicked for him but he is feeling inspired and engaged and excited! I could cry. Thanks for holding all the space for these kids, mine included. So much gratitude!””
GO Tutors Build Relationships & Create Opportunities
Reliable role models who provide academic and social-emotional support are essential for our most vulnerable students. GO tutors collaborate with classroom teachers to set learning goals, observe students, and participate in curriculum nights and parent-teacher conferences. This individualized approach ensures each child's academic needs are addressed. In addition to tutoring, GO tutors mentor students and connect home and school by working with parents and caregivers to offer enrichment opportunities. These may include tickets to cultural or sporting events, museum visits, or sponsorship for extracurricular activities. This support fosters trust and transforms students' attitudes toward school, their community, and life.
“My daughter’s favorite days of the week are GO days!” ”
“What I think students need most is calm time talking with good role models. That’s what my son got most out of GO tutoring. Regular time with an adult who wasn’t rushed, and talked him through his problems.” ”
GO Provides Fair and Equitable Access to Participation
Since 2005, GO has provided free one-on-one tutoring to up to 75 ICSD students annually. We are committed to supporting economically disadvantaged students who face barriers to meeting grade-level expectations. Despite Ithaca's commitment to diversity and inclusion, many families continue to experience economic hardship that limits access to educational opportunities. As a result, the demand for free, high-quality tutoring and mentorship continues to increase. GO helps close this gap by removing barriers and ensuring that students who need support most can access individualized academic support and mentorship at no cost.
As community needs have evolved, GO has continually adapted its services to address barriers that prevent students from participating. In 2020, the loss of district-provided bus services created one of GO's greatest challenges. With 98% of GO families lacking reliable transportation, ensuring students could attend tutoring became urgent. GO responded by forming transportation partnerships and hiring private drivers to eliminate participation barriers and maintain uninterrupted tutoring. During the past 6 year period, GO tutors and contracted drivers transported students home after each session, enabling families to remain engaged despite the loss of district transportation.
“Thank you for helping with rides. Without that, my child wouldn’t be able to stay after school for tutoring.”
GO also strengthened the network of supports surrounding students and their families. Community partners, including the YMCA, welcomed GO students into after-school programs at no cost, while GO Club provided a safe, welcoming environment where students built friendships, developed a sense of belonging, and received nutritious snacks and take-home meals. These services became increasingly important as economic pressures on families grew.
When SNAP benefits were reduced in 2025, many GO families faced heightened food insecurity and financial hardship. Recognizing that students cannot learn effectively when basic needs go unmet, GO expanded its support by providing emergency food assistance and connecting families with community resources to help bridge the gap and ensure students remained healthy, engaged, and ready to learn.
“The Thanksgiving help meant a lot to our family and made the holiday feel special.”