Programs > College Readiness

In early 2009 Circle Urban began a research process to launch a program that would be a support for graduates of our wrap-around programs through their high school years.

We were intrigued to learn that some of the things that produced positive results were not complicated or difficult. One of the more significant items notes that a major contributor to college success is something as basic as the student acquiring the vision for and belief that they can succeed. And, this can be fueled by something as simple as involving the children in college campus visits beginning at around the 5th grade.

So, in October 2009, Circle introduced the College Readiness Program. Each school year's programs will:

  • Assist students through their academic challenges
  • Provide college, career, and cultural exposure
  • Provide leadership development and volunteer opportunities
  • Provide life skills enrichment classes and academic enhancements
  • Facilitate college research and application for high school students
  • Help facilitate high school research and application for middle-schoolers
  • Facilitate social bonding with a positive peer group
  • And, be fun!
   

The program will provide research-based services and activities that are linked to pro-social behavior, ensuring high school success, and college/work-readiness. All progamming will be based on the following 5 Core Factors which are research-based indicators of success:

  1. Academic rigor
  2. Development of College and Career aspirations
  3. Parental involvement and parent knowledge about college and career readiness
  4. Social and cultural support (peer, family, mentor)
  5. Access to college and career information (for students and parents)

We, at Circle Urban Ministries beleive that the College Readiness Program as tremendous potential. We believe it will have a significant impact - changing the lives of the youth enrolled, their families, and our community.

With our solid program design that serves the felt and statistically valid needs of our community, we look forward to seeing how the lives of the participants and their families are impacted.