"Private Lessons: The Truth About Tutoring," a News 12 Long Island/Newsday three-part report examines the ABCs of the tutoring business on Long Island. Investigative reporter Thomas Maier talks to parents, students and experts. Does tutoring work? Is it worth the money? And does pricey tutoring create a system of educational "haves" and "have-nots?"

"The Truth About Tutoring," an exclusive three-part investigation on News 12 Long Island. And check out Maier's in-depth report in Newsday, beginning today on the Web and in Wednesday's newspaper.

MAP: Tutors on Long Island

Part 1 - The Tutoring Biz: Big Money, Buyer Beware

Wayne Smith says he paid $3,000 for a big-name tutoring firm to improve his high school son's English test scores - but that didn't happen. Who oversees Long Island's unregulated tutoring industry and what can parents expect?

Part 2 - Failed Promises: No Child Left Behind

The federal 'No Child Left Behind' program was supposed to provide money to hire private tutors for kids in Long Island's most troubled districts. The program collapsed because of scandals. But some of the companies involved are still in business - and are even listed on a government website.

Part 3 - Tutoring: A Tale of Two Students

Some parents on Long Island pay $10,000 a year for private lessons so their children can get ahead of their classmates. But parents who can't afford expensive tutors have nowhere to turn - a serious problem for kids in under-performing schools. Has tutoring worsened inequality in Long Island's education system?