Since elementary school, 6th-grade scholar Jacob has been interested in STEM—from watching the chemical reactions that occur while making “elephant toothpaste” using food coloring, yeast, soap, and hydrogen peroxide, to powering a lightbulb with a battery.
That same spirit of curiosity is sparked at Higher Achievement. “We have electives and fun stuff,” says Jacob. One of his favorite activities is Higher Achievement’s cooking elective. “During cooking, I’ve made jambalaya, spaghetti carbonara, tacos, and crepes.” He also values the field trips he’s been able to experience in the program, including a trip to Urban Air Trampoline Park and the movie theater to see a film about Jackie Robinson. Field trips and electives give scholars like Jacob opportunities to explore their interests and experience the richness of their community.
In addition to electives and field trips, Jacob values what he’s been able to learn during weekly mentoring lessons. “We take notes about stuff we need to work on and make scenarios about what can happen in a situation,” notes Jacob. Mentoring curriculum helps scholars practice critical skills that prepare them for high school and beyond including time management, goal setting, communication, and research. Jacob is particularly proud of the progress he’s made in building positive habits at Higher Achievement. “Now I finish all my homework in one sitting!”
For Jacob, Higher Achievement is a peaceful place where he’s been able to advance both his academic and emotional skills. “Higher Achievement has taught me how to be more helpful, more kind to others, and to share more things,” says Jacob. “They care about your health and well-being.”
Higher Achievement is proud to support scholars like Jacob as they learn, lead, and grow during their formative middle school years.
Aubrey recently celebrated a big win: earning a place in Bard High School Early College’s incoming freshman class. Aubrey, an 8th-grade scholar at Higher Achievement’s Highlandtown Achievement Center, worked hard to secure this accomplishment while navigating doubts and challenges. The journey began when Aubrey received her composite score—a metric used for admissions to Baltimore’s competitive […]
7th grade scholar Samir challenges himself in and out of school – a trait encouraged at Higher Achievement. “Something I’ve learned at Higher Achievement is to push forward no matter what. If something is easy, you should do something harder to challenge yourself,” says Samir. “I hate writing. When I was working on homework at […]
7th grade scholar Jordan’s determination and enthusiasm exemplify the Higher Achievement spirit. Despite her busy athletic schedule, including cheer and volleyball commitments, Jordan’s commitment to education led her to join Higher Achievement in 6th grade after hearing about it from friends. Participating in Higher Achievement has opened doors for Jordan to explore diverse interests through […]
In 6th grade, Oumerath joined Higher Achievement after a presentation in her class. “They told us how it helps you learn and get your homework done,” says Oumerath. “My grades weren’t bad, but I needed some extra support,” she adds. Oumerath dove into a variety of extracurricular activities in addition to Higher Achievement during her […]
Relationships are at the heart of Higher Achievement’s impact. During weekly mentoring sessions, scholars and mentors form a connection built on trust, encouragement, and support. For 8th-grade scholar Jada and her mentor Ms. Apara, mentoring has been an opportunity to develop both academic skills and a personal bond. Jada and her peers have spent the […]
Brookland 6th grader Lily is fully embracing all the opportunities offered to her during her first year of middle school, including participation in Higher Achievement. Higher Achievement’s field trips, electives, academic support, and community have already made an impact. “We learn how to be a better community at Higher Achievement,” says Lily. During Community Meetings, scholars […]