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Higher Achievement’s rigorous after-school and summer academic program gives youth from at-risk communities their best opportunity to succeed in middle school — and in life. Our research-based program challenges middle school students to meet their full potential in three key areas: academics, social skills, and leadership. When students get the skills and support they need to invest in their own success, they discover that they can be scholars. On average, 95 percent of Higher Achievement scholars who complete the program advance to top academic high schools and 93% advance to college.

Founded in 1975, Higher Achievement currently serves more than 600 scholars per year and, in partnership with local schools, operates achievement centers in Washington, DC; Alexandria, VA; Baltimore, MD and in the summer of 2010, Richmond, VA. The organization is expanding with plans to serve 2,300 scholars per year by 2015. Higher Achievement is funded by support from foundations, businesses, government, and individuals. The organization has been honored with numerous national and local awards.

Higher Achievement is a champion of three principles: talent is everywhere, intellect is built through effort, and opportunities matter.