Ways to Find a Tutor

Things are going downhill fast in math and science for our daughter who entered middle school this year. Her teachers don't have the time to help her. How do we find a good tutor for our daughter? -- Worried
Answer: For many students, the adjustment to middle school is often difficult. This frequently is the first time they have had multiple teachers. And they can find it difficult adjusting to each teacher's teaching style.
You say that her teachers don't have the time to help her. That could be true for some of her teachers, but others may have before- or after-school tutoring times for groups of students. This should be investigated.
Your daughter definitely needs an intervention plan to be put in place quickly. She may or may not need a tutor. Enlist the guidance counselor in setting up a meeting with your child's math and science teachers. Your daughter should attend. At this meeting, you need to find out what your child's specific problems are. Is she not turning in assignments? Is she doing poorly on quizzes? Is she flunking tests? How is her daily class participation? After this meeting, you should know the level of help your child needs and exactly what areas a tutor, if required, should work on improving.
When you are looking for a tutor, the best place to start is frequently with the guidance counselor. The school may have a list of teachers in the building who tutor, as well as other tutors. The counselor may also be able to recommend a learning center that has produced good results.
We realize that price must be a consideration in choosing a tutor. You must also factor in the tutor's credentials, experience, availability and methods. Have your daughter be part of the selection process, as you need to find someone with whom she can work comfortably. It is generally a good idea to interview more than one prospective tutor.