Become a Scholar
Our scholars are driven and talented. We are committed to providing them with the opportunities, resources, and encouragement to bring their big dreams to life.
Where Talent
Meets Opportunity
Middle school is a time of development, of growth, of opportunities, and of possibilities.
Higher Achievement’s rigorous afterschool program is designed to help your child sharpen their academic skills and build the social-emotional tools to succeed in high school and beyond.
How Higher Achievement Works
Our program runs from September through May, from approximately 3:30-6:30 p.m., nurturing scholars’ academic and social development.
Academic Enrichment
sharpens scholars’ critical thinking, reading, writing, and presentation skills while giving them time to complete homework.
Electives
such as art, yoga, cooking, dance, sports, and robotics engage scholars in new interests.
Mentoring for High School Readiness
allows scholars to explore options for high school, college, and career while working alongside a weekly mentor.
Field Trips
take scholars to museums and cultural sites, sporting events, theater performances, and career days at local businesses.
College Visits
every summer help scholars begin to envision exciting options for their futures.
Social-Emotional Skill Building
helps scholars develop confidence, self-efficacy, and time management.
Higher Achievement Scholars Shine
Our scholars are brimming with talent, ambition, humor, and big dreams.
For over fifty years, Higher Achievement has empowered middle school scholars to grow as learners and leaders — and that impact lasts long after they leave. We proudly celebrate our alumni’s achievements: Higher Achievement graduates are three times more likely than their peers to graduate from a four-year college within six years.
FAQ’s
To be eligible for enrollment in Higher Achievement, a child must:
- Be willing to commit 300 hours afterschool per year for three to four years
- Attend 5th, 6th, 7th or 8th grade; most new scholars are rising 5th or 6th grade students
- Live or attend school in one of the Higher Achievement communities
Consideration is not based on standardized test scores and grades. Commitment to our rigorous, multi-year program is the most important factor.
Middle school is a critical time of development. The habits, relationships, and beliefs young people form in these years shape everything that follows. Our supportive program guides scholars in shaping their personal and academic goals and equips them with the tools and encouragement to achieve their ambitions.
Our afterschool program for 5th-8th grade scholars combines academic enrichment with social-emotional skill building, culminating in placement in college preparatory high schools. Scholars participate in learning blocks to complete homework and work on high school applications, work weekly with a mentor, practice social-emotional skill-building during gathering times and community meetings, learn new interests during electives, and take part in field trips.
Learn more about our program model.