Our Programs

Programs designed to empower and connect.

We believe a complex problem requires a multi-faceted solution, which is why we’ve designed programs that work together to holistically address our youth’s needs and carry them throughout their entire middle and high school career.

On the Road: 6th and 7th Grade Programming

For our 6th and 7th graders, who are still transitioning to middle-school and all the independence that comes with it, we believe they simply need a welcoming and inclusive space that allows them to investigate their place and the many paths available to them. We call our introductory programs “On the Road” as a way of sharing our name and core values with as many young people as possible.​

In our introductory programs, we serve more than 80 sixth and seventh graders per school and support them through academic coaching and Career Enrichment Courses. We believe these programs are about setting the foundation for our youth to succeed throughout our programs and later in life, so we focus immensely on building authentic, supportive relationships and creating the inviting after-school space that On the Road is known for.

8th Grade Academy

The name of our programs for our 8th graders. This began as a way to differentiate our middle programs, which provide increased opportunities for our youth as they prepare to transition to high school and move through the more rigorous and independent high-school experience.

Both programs have a set curriculum that focuses on the following:

  • Personal Development
  • Community Building
  • Success Skills
  • Future Planning
Our curriculum was based on extensive research as to what youth most need during these pivotal years, as well as our own observations during the first years of On the Road. We believe strongly in this aspect of our programs because it’s what helps us truly support the well-rounded growth we hope to see in each of our youth.

8th Grade Academy meet twice per week, with one day devoted to Career Enrichment Courses and the other day focused on this curriculum. College trips are also included as part of these programs 

High School Academy

Our High School Academy program is open to 9th-12th graders, includes mostly youth who participated in our middle school programs, and focuses more on post-secondary preparation, with presentations and lessons from local professionals or speakers. Topics and presentations typically include financial literacy, community service, how to pay for college, resume building, and interview skills, among others.

Youth also have the opportunity to do up to 6 college trips per year, including an overnight college tour during spring break to visit both in- and out-of-state colleges around our region. Academy meets one day per week, with opportunities to participate in weekly Career Enrichment Courses if they choose.

We do some tailored programming for our 9th graders as they transition to high school and the independence that comes with it.

English VOICES Club

VOICES Club offers English Language Learners and Newcomers a safe space to increase their English literacy while developing an interest in reading and writing through hands-on tutoring, group discussions, and creative composition assignments.

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