Our scholars dream high.

High Jump delivers one-of-a-kind experiences, access to resources, and educational opportunities for students who want to challenge themselves.

Think you have what it takes? We know you do.

The change-makers of tomorrow.

High Jump scholars are ambitious students who seek a higher level of academic rigor and challenge.

How does High Jump make a difference?

Give the gift of access.

High Jump is a safe space to make new friends, gain meaningful experiences, and discover new interests.

Your support makes this possible.

IFK Announcement

We are excited and honored to announce that High Jump was just selected as one of the beneficiaries of the 15th annual Invest for Kids Conference!

Notable Women in STEM recognition for High Jump Chief Programs Officer

Read our latest update to learn how Yolanda Luna-Mroz helps develop learners with the skills they need to thrive wherever they go.

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Why High Jump?

In 1989, High Jump started with a single, mighty mission: to bring equity to education for Chicago middle grade students who have exhibited academic ambition and potential and who are of limited economic means.

Today, that mission is stronger than ever. High Jump empowers Chicago’s middle schoolers to become well-rounded leaders through our tuition-free programs with one-of-a-kind experiences, resources, and educational support for curious and motivated 7th and 8th-grade students who want to challenge themselves academically.

0%

4-year college completion

When we say “invest” we truly mean it.

Each year our scholars receive 350 hours of tuition-free academic enrichment, one-on-one counseling and dedicated support.

The most important part: it works.

2 YEARS

of academic growth per year of High Jump

0%

of High Jump alums are now attending college

Building the Next Generation of Leaders.

At High Jump, we help learners develop the skills they need to thrive wherever they go. Our curriculum exposes students to culturally relevant literature, rigorous math instruction, and experiential learning to help them prepare for high school, college, and beyond.

High Jump at Latin School on Saturday 1st, 2022. Photos by Jasmin Shah

Our 16:1 student-to-teacher ratio helps students thrive. Small class size means more one-on-one time with teachers to provide an emotionally supportive learning environment that’s more meaningful for students.

Scholars make new friends, gain meaningful experiences, and build confidence to follow their dreams. Interested in applying? Have more questions about how it works? Check out our program FAQs.

The Impact is Lifelong: Meet Our Alums

The High Jump experience lasts much longer than just the two years of the program. Our alums take risks, achieve their dreams, and do their part to better the world – but don’t take it from us.

Read their stories.

Alumni Spotlight: Aji, Cohort 20

Since childhood, Aji has had an incredibly active mind – always searching for outlets to explore his interests, expand his…

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Alumni Spotlight: Rebekah, Cohort 11

When Rebekah joined High Jump as a 7th grader back in 1999, she was already a precocious, confident student who…

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Alumni Spotlight: Jessica, Cohort 22

“The friends I’ve made at High Jump have turned into my best friends and people I trust to be there for me. And High Jump has motivated me to do anything in my power to be successful in life and give back to my community.”

Read More »

Alumni Spotlight: Derrick, Cohort 22

“Thanks to High Jump, I realized that I could accomplish big things despite my financial background.”

Read More »

THE LATEST ON OUR SCHOLARS. STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

Check out our most recent E-News: What Scholars Did This Summer to see what you can expect.

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