INDIANAPOLIS - The YMCA is launching a special tutoring program in Indianapolis that could help improve graduation rates among underprivileged children.

YMCA leaders are aiming to close the achievement gap by reaching out to students in kindergarten through fifth grade, and one of the first programs in Indy was launched at the Paramount School of Excellence on the city's near east side.

"We are keeping track of the students that are participating in this program before and after school and tracking their data verses students who don't (participate) from the same area," school administrator Scott Frye said.

YMCA Associate Program Director Monica Richardson said if the Indianapolis program is a success, Indy could be a model city for other schools around the country.

"Annual studies show a million children are dropping out of school. Studies are also showing that by year 2018, 63 percent of American jobs are going to require some kind of post-secondary education. (Those factors) are driving us to start this now. (We want to) take the kids that we have and build that foundation for academic success," Richardson said.

Thirty-five students are enrolled in Paramounts's program.

Fees are based on their parents' incomes. 

For more information about the tutoring program, visit the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis.