Project Grad Akron

Secondary and post-secondary programming: Project Grad Akron's college and career central programming provides college and career readiness and access services for 6th through 12th grade students in selected schools of the Akron public schools. Once students have successfully graduated from high school, support programs and services are provided for the students to persist and successfully graduate from college. College and career central (3c) is our comprehensive readiness program that prepares students for life after high school graduation through a systematic approach which supports students to make informed choices about their future. The program provides students with the information, knowledge, resources, and skills to be ready for life after high school graduation whether the plan is to enroll in college, enlist in the military, or move directly to employment. The program model is designed to prepare all students grades 6th through 12th with college and career readiness services incorporating interconnected key concepts utilizing evidence based practices. Juniors and seniors participate in traditional and team mentoring through Grad mentors!. Grads persist provides continuing outreach services to our postsecondary students to support their persistence in their post-secondary pursuits. The program design is based on best practices in the area of college success.

Primary programming: students begin their relationship with Project Grad Akron through the bridge to kindergarten (b2k) program which serves students and families in the Akron public schools transitioning into kindergarten from home or preschool. B2k is a comprehensive and holistic approach to meeting the needs of students and parents with the transition to kindergarten marking the start of the child's formal education. Program components include summer and school year academic achievement programming and services, family case management services, including preparation for promotion and success in first grade, for students and parents. The curriculum design, founded on best practices and evidenced based research, focuses on the development of skills in the areas of literacy, math, social, physical, and motor development. In addition, we provide wrap-around services to encourage parents to become actively engaged in their child's education. The program begins with an intensive summer academy, providing skill building for students, engagement activities for parents, and continued support services for the families through the school year with continued support services during the student's primary education. B2k program partners include Akron public schools, kent state university's early childhood education department, and summit education initiative.