Eligibility

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High Jump seeks sixth grade students who demonstrate strong academic potential, value learning, and have dreams of excelling academically. We embrace diversity and look for students from all cultural and ethnic backgrounds living in Chicago and the immediate metro area.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Students with B or higher average (High Jump students earn more A’s than B’s)
  • 70th percentile and higher on fifth grade Math and Reading standardized test.
  • Students who thirst for more knowledge or require an academic challenge
  • Students whose family demonstrates a financial need—eligible for Illinois free or reduced breakfast/lunch or financial aid at tuition-based schools. Financial need refers to families whose annual incomes are at or under $65,000.

STUDENT COMMITMENT

Students who attend High Jump:

  • Commit to attending and successfully completing a two year program which includes two six-week summer intensive sessions of classes and Saturday classes held two/three times per month during the school year. The course of study includes algebra, biology, physics, humanities and writing workshop, and grades are determined by homework, projects, class participation and exams. Classes are held at the Latin School of Chicago, the Francis W. Parker School, and The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools.
  • Are active participants in all of High Jump’s mandatory events, including:
    • Orientation and Open House (prior to each session)
    • Expo Day
    • High School Fair
    • High school visits
    • High school exam prep courses
    • Class trips
    • Moving Up Ceremony
  • Agree to apply to three different types of high schools – public and private (independent, parochial, or boarding) – submitting applications to at least of two different types of high schools.
  • Sit for required high school entrance exams such as the ISEE, SSAT, Selective Enrollment Public, or Catholic School Entrance Exam.