Higher Achievement’s Post

During Higher Achievement Richmond's High School Readiness Academy in July, scholars prepared for their futures through a four-day workshop. Scholars learned about local high schools and the application process for specialty schools, practiced mock interviews and writing personal statements in preparation for high school and college applications, and participated in a discussion with a panel of Higher Achievement alumni who shared their high school experiences.

College visits allow our scholars to glimpse the rewards and rigors of college life. For many, it is their first time on a college campus, planting seeds of possibilities. This summer, our Greenbelt and Ward 4 scholars visited the University of the District of Columbia our Wards 6, 7, 8, and Brookland scholars visited Bowie State University, and our Richmond scholars visited Randolph-Macon College. Each visit consisted of a guided tour, a time for questions and answers with current students, and lunch in the cafeteria -- always a scholar favorite!

Are you passionate about supporting middle school students? We are now hiring for part-time Center Aides! Hours vary, but are generally September 2024 -May 2025, Mondays-Thursdays, 3:15-6:30 p.m. $20/hour with paid training. Apply today and help spread the word! https://lnkd.in/gRRWuhXE

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Mentoring matters. When reflecting on her Higher Achievement experience, Greenbelt scholar Addisen shared, "Someone I have met who has changed my life for the better would have to be my mentor Mr. Jerry. He has been the best mentor and I could not have made it through middle school without venting and receiving help from him.” Mentors are partners in our scholars' success. Their guidance and encouragement have a lasting impact. Don't miss the opportunity to make a difference in the life of a middle school student as a Higher Achievement mentor. Mentors volunteer one hour per week for the duration of the school year. No experience is needed and all training and materials are provided. Learn more and apply: https://lnkd.in/eN8yMu3w

Cyniah Wynn, a recent college grad and Higher Achievement alum, returned this year to her former Ward 8 Achievement Center – this time as a mentor. “I always liked the program,” says Cyniah. “I loved going to Higher Achievement and I loved my mentor. I wanted to be that person for someone else.” Ms. Cyniah worked with a group of three 5th-grade scholars—Adreanna, Kamone, and Maci—who met weekly for mentoring. “We talk about homework, how we feel, and how school is going,” says Kamone. Ms. Cyniah made a point to open their time with intentional relationship-building before diving into the lessons. “We talk about how our day has been, what’s been going on,” says Adreanna. It’s been meaningful for Cyniah to return to Higher Achievement and take her journey full circle from scholar to mentor. “The fact that I wanted to come back to Higher Achievement after middle school speaks to its impact. I joined Higher Achievement because I appreciated my mentors and created lasting bonds with them. I’m 21 now and still keep in touch with them!” Mentors like Ms. Cyniah play a profound role in nurturing the next generation of scholars as they develop their talents and gain confidence in their abilities. Read more on our blog and find out more about how you can make a difference as a mentor: https://lnkd.in/eQD-b-ez

#Mentoring is a cornerstone of Higher Achievement's academic and social-emotional support. Mentors build lasting connections with scholars while providing encouragement and tools to help scholars succeed in high school and beyond. We're currently recruiting mentors for the 2024-2025 school year! No experience is required and training and curriculum are provided. Learn more and apply: https://lnkd.in/eN8yMu3w