Student Achievement with Proximity Learning: How Virtual Teachers Drive Real Results

Imagine a classroom where every student has access to a certified teacher live every day. That’s the power of Proximity Learning, a synchronous learning model built around live interaction and tailored support using digital tools instead of prerecorded content or discussion boards. When students experience real-time instruction, they’re more engaged, more confident, and more likely to learn critical subjects like math, science, and English.

Research shows these live lessons produce stronger outcomes and build meaningful connections between teachers and learners. For example, the Poverty Action Lab reveals that tutoring increases student achievement by 3 to 15 months of learning across all grade levels. Student achievement with Proximity’s model isn’t temporary—it’s delivering measurable gains and shaping future success.

An Introduction to Proximity Learning

Proximity Learning is a pioneer in synchronous education, connecting live, certified teachers with students in classrooms across the country, including:

• Public elementary, middle, and high schools
• Private elementary, middle, and high schools
• Charter elementary, middle, and high schools

Founded over 15 years ago, our mission is simple: to break down distance barriers so every student can learn in real time from expert virtual educators. Over 500,000 students have benefited from our model so far, with many school districts reporting double-digit gains in test scores and student outcomes.

How This Works in Practice

Proximity Learning bridges staffing gaps and delivers consistent, high-quality instruction by pairing your district with live certified teachers through secure online platforms. We use learning management systems (LMS)—software like Canvas or Schoology—that manage course materials, attendance, grades, and discussions.

During scheduled classes, students and teachers connect via video conferencing, chat tools, screen sharing, and interactive whiteboards. This setup enables real-time engagement, immediate feedback, and tailored support, all aligned with each school’s bell schedule.

When your in-frame teacher is unavailable, Proximity Learning ensures seamless continuity. Our LMS lets guest educators step in with full access to lesson plans and student records, while recorded lessons allow students to review or catch up. No matter the subject, our live model brings effective interactive distance learning that feels natural and sustained—no matter where your certified teachers are located.

Subjects Offered

Proximity Learning provides a broad range of high-quality instruction in both core and specialized areas, all delivered by certified teachers in live virtual classrooms:

• Core subjects like Math, English, Science, and Social Studies
• Special education
• Electives including choir, P.E., and art
• World languages such as Spanish, French, and Chinese to support bilingual instruction
• Specialty courses and CTE such as arts, technology, vocational training, and career-ready lessons

Real Results from Virtual Teachers with Proximity Learning

Live, certified instruction is convenient and produces measurable impact. Districts partnering with Proximity Learning see clear gains in grades, standardized test scores, and student engagement. Real evidence backs these results.

Classroom Gains and Test Score Increases

An independent study at Chicago State University analyzing over 40,000 students found that districts using Proximity’s live model saw an 11+ point increase on standardized tests in grades 4-11, and a 21-point gain in Algebra I. Ninth-grade English II scores rose by 7.7 points, while core subject grades jumped by up to 56% at Red River Charter Academy.

Increased Access to Specialized Subjects

Because Proximity Learning delivers certified teachers virtually, districts can offer a wider range of classes than staffing alone would allow. One partner doubled its world language offerings, expanding bilingual education and special education courses without needing local hires.

Students enrolled in CTE or advanced electives are getting expert instruction, even if those credentials are hard to source locally. That means all students get equitable access to a full curriculum regardless of geography.

Scaling Quality Into Every Classroom

Proximity Learning allows every school district to access top-tier teaching, no matter its location. Over 67% more districts adopted our model from 2022 to 2024 amid the widespread teacher shortage, deploying more than 1,000 virtual teachers in over 5,300 classrooms. This growth means even rural and underserved districts can expand offering in world languages, special education, and advanced electives. With live, certified teachers, Proximity enables broad access to rigorous, engaging education that drives academic outcomes in every classroom.

Strengthening Relationships One Virtual Class at a Time

Human connection drives learning, and Proximity teachers build real rapport with students live online. Teachers and in-class facilitators check in regularly, use breakout rooms, and adapt lessons to meet student needs. In this community-focused model, students feel seen and supported, breaking the isolation common in asynchronous systems. That bond:

• Encourages engagement
• Keeps students accountable
• Builds the trust needed for deeper learning and confidence in and out of school

Providing Pathways from College to Careers

For students seeking to go to college, Proximity Learning supports clear academic pathways as they progress from high school to community colleges and universities. Our programs prepare learners for post-secondary success by building strong grades and academic outcomes that support college enrollment. For example, the peer-reviewed study at Red River Charter Academy showed a 5.3% ACT score increase alongside 56% core subject gains.

Bridging Distance Learning Gaps

Proximity Learning solves key challenges of remote education by combining synchronous sessions with flexible support. A Harvard-aligned infographic confirms synchronous classrooms feature 62% more live interactive lectures, reducing student isolation and boosting engagement. Student satisfaction is higher too—learners and teachers report 7-8% greater contentment compared to asynchronous learning models.

By offering real-time group discussions, breakout rooms, and instant feedback, our model ensures every student has access to the attention they need no matter the subject.

Increase Student Achievement Through Live Virtual Teaching with Proximity Learning

Proximity Learning proves that live, certified instruction delivers consistent, meaningful impact in real classrooms. With over 500,000 students served in over 150 school districts and a 92% teacher retention rate, our model has shown that it can overcome staffing gaps and deliver stability and growth across diverse districts.

When you partner with Proximity Learning, you’ll gain access to live, certified teachers who constantly deliver engaging, high-quality instruction in every subject—core, elective, or specialized. With proven results, seamless integration via LMS and video platforms, and strong social-emotional support, we’re going beyond filling vacancies. We’re improving student achievement.

Ready to bring virtual teachers into your classrooms and drive real student outcomes? Talk to us today to discover how Proximity Learning can transform your district’s academic success, one live lesson at a time.

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