Emerging Scholars Program Inc

Why is ESP's Work  Important

There are many highly capable but underserved students who through an independent school education can fully develop their potential. By providing access to this educational opportunity, ESP will not only impact the lives of individual students and their families, but will provide our society with critically needed leaders of character that could otherwise be lost. ESP approaches these individuals as an investment in our collective future.

Our Mission

The mission of Emerging Scholars Program is to provide an academic, cultural, and social enrichment program for a diverse group of students who, without preparation and financial assistance, could not consider an independent school education. ESP offers bright boys and girls the opportunity to earn a place in some of the best independent schools in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Through determination, hard work and commitment participants are prepared to be successful students and leaders in their academic careers and beyond.

What We Do

ESP is modeled after the well-proven and highly successful Prep for Prep, founded 30 years ago in New York City. Following the Prep model, ESP:

• Annually recruits, tests, and enrolls up to 18 rising fifth grade students who have strong family support, and who demonstrate academic capability, leadership potential, and financial need.
• Prepares its graduates with a rigorous 14-month program, requiring 100 full days of attendance. Classes are held in two seven week summer sessions before and after their fifth grade year, and up to 30 Saturday session during their fifth grade year.
• Teaches a core academic curriculum including reading, writing, math, fine arts, and technology
• Includes a strong focus throughout all student activities on critical thinking, leadership skills, personal growth, social interaction, moral values, and the challenges of being part of an independent school culture
• Prepares both students and parents to meet the social and personal issues they will face as they become part of an independent school community.
• Aids graduates and parents in applying for admission to the sixth grade at an appropriate independent school.
• Assists parents in the process of applying for and receiving financial aid from their chosen school.
• Offers participation at no cost to the student; scholarship support is determined and provided by enrolling school.
• Will track its graduates through their entire educational journey, from initial placement through college. Follow-up may include counseling, mentoring, alumni activities, and tutoring.

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