Community Scholars Pilot

Student-First. Hands-on. More Accessible.

High Jump Scholars is a tuition-free program with one-of-a-kind experiences, access to resources, and educational opportunities.

Students are intellectually curious and academically motivated, and they seek a high school experience that will challenge them socially and academically. The program is designed to bring programming to neighborhood schools and reach more students across Chicago.

Who can apply?

  • All students currently in 6th grade who are enrolled at a Community Scholars site
  • Students with a B average or higher
  • Those who are intellectually curious and academically motivated
  • Students seeking a high school experience that will challenge them socially and academically
  • Students who meet the required income thresholds

Materials and Meals

All learning materials for the program will be provided. Students will also receive free snacks at each day of programming they attend.

Where do I attend High Jump?

Community Scholars is currently hosted at:

  • George B. Armstrong Elementary 
  • Philip Rogers Fine Arts Elementary

Community Scholars attend the program at their public school. The program begins immediately following dismissal and is taught by teachers from their school. The program begins immediately following dismissal and is taught by teachers from their school.

High School Selection Support

During eighth grade, High Jump supports students and their families with the high school admissions process, financial aid and scholarship information they need to prepare for high school and college success.

How do I Apply?

Participation is currently limited and students will be nominated by their school based on teacher recommendations, grades, attendance, and test scores.

Community Scholars is a partnership between High Jump and Northwestern University’s School of Education and Social Policy with support from Chicago Public Schools. This pilot program examines a cost-effective and scalable model to serve more communities and, ultimately, more students.

Who is High Jump? High Jump is a nonprofit organization that has provided free academic enrichment to 7th and 8th graders for over 30 years. We commit to supporting students and families from middle school through college.