Should I have 2 decent school teacher recs or a decent school teacher rec and a great tutor rec?

I had a rough year last year as a junior. I developed anxiety and depression that went undiagnosed for most of the school year. As a result, I was pretty insecure, and I’m not going to go into too much detail, but insecure people aren’t always the most charming or enjoyable people to be around. I used to be a really social person who went out of her way to make friendships and be thoughtful, but I became very closed off. As a result, I didn’t feel I had personal relationships with my teachers to the same extent I had in previous years. I think that my teacher recs will show that I am a good student, but I don’t think either will be raving.

I have a writing tutor who really likes me and has known me for a long time. He said that he has only agreed to write recs for 5 people and that several of those people received comments for admissions counselors that his rec had been a convincing factor for them. He also said that he would love to write me one. The issue is that I’ve also heard from admissions people (online and at college visits) having 2 recs from teachers that have a taught the student in class year round is a definite bump. I don’t know what to do. I’d just like the best chance possible.

I have my advisor writing a 3rd rec, which is pretty much a requirement because I go to a weird school, and they want the advisor to help the college understand the intricacies. I also know that my advisor thinks highly of me and will write a strong rec. I really don’t think it’s a good idea to send 4 recs, so I have got to choose. I would appreciate any feedback! Thanks in advance.

I think the answer may depend on the schools you’re applying to. It can vary by school - some of my son’s schools would accept 4 or 5; others only 2. He was also required to get a rec from his guidance counselor. I think if you’ve known the tutor for a long time, that may work as well as a teacher you had for one year.