It started in 2018 with just one tutor.
Now, the St. Charles Tutoring Lab offers peer tutoring for all grades across all subject areas, support for college-level coursework and ACT prep. There are 10 tutors, including both peer tutors and teacher tutors. The lab currently serves about 20 students with dozens of students across the parish using the lab each year.
The lab, which partners with United Way of St. Charles Parish, also offers free tutoring for students at Luling Elementary, St. Rose Elementary and R.K. Smith Middle School.
The 45-minute tutoring sessions are $25 and are available Monday through Thursday during the school year. Limited weekend appointments are available, and the lab offers summer sessions.
Johnel Bryant Robinson, who earned her doctorate in education leadership, opened the lab with the mission of providing students in St. Charles Parish with affordable, high-quality tutoring that is accessible to all families.
“We believe that personalized tutoring should not be out of reach – it should be available to anyone who desires academic support aligned with today’s school curriculum,” Robinson said.
The lab meets students at parish libraries in Destrehan and Luling and offers virtual tutoring. Teacher tutors serve as mentors for the lab’s peer tutors while also supporting students directly when requested. The peer teachers are high school students, many of whom are involved in the Educators Rising program at the St. Charles Parish School’s Satellite Center.
“These students are recommended by teachers, counselors and administrators and they work hand-in-hand with families to provide strong academic support,” Robinson said.
Robinson said the lab also offers Mindful Moments sessions at $25. These sessions are designed to help students build focus, manage stress and strengthen resilience.
“We know that success in school is about more than just academics – it’s also about confidence, resilience and emotional well-being,” Robinson said. “That’s why we make it a priority to inspire and encourage both our students and our tutors.”
The lab motivates students with inspirational bracelets with quotes like “press forward” and “the only limit is you.”
“By focusing on both academics and mindset, we ensure that every student not only improves in their schoolwork but also builds the confidence to face challenges with positivity and determination,” Robinson said.
Robinson said she wants parents to know that the lab’s goal is not just to help with schoolwork, but to partner with families in creating long-term success.
“Whether through free services made possible by the United Way or affordable paid sessions, we are here to meet families where they are and give students the tools to thrive,” she said.
