Reaching Higher is our free afterschool program offered in 9 area schools targeting 3rd-8th grades. We target kids who are at risk but want everyone regardless of needs to join as well. Program is after school and runs for 2 and a half hours Monday-Thursday. Each program can serve up to 45 kids per day. Our goal is to reinforce the academics students learn throughout the school day and to help improve behavior in the classroom. During program we hold large group activities and enrichments, offer homework help, and feed the kids a snack and supper. To reduce barriers, we also offer free transportation home from program. Enrichments are what make the program fun for kids. This is to expose the kids to new and different hobbies, life skills, and recreational activities they may not have experienced. The students who join Reaching Higher improve their social skills, develop their interests, and earn better grades in school. Reaching Higher is funded through a 21st Century Community Learning Center grant.
Reaching Higher is available in daVinci Secondary School, Hunt Elementary School, Springport Middle School, East Jackson Elementary School, Leslie Middle School, Attwood New Tech Magnet School, Mt. Hope Elementary School, Greyhound Intermediate School, and Townsend Elementary School.
“My child is doing really well in school. She got all A’s and is staying out of trouble and Reaching Higher has helped her achieve that.” – Reaching Higher Parent
“It has given my children a safe and happy place to grow and learn whether it be academically or socially.” – Reaching Higher Parent
Anyone who is interested in a copy of Reaching Higher’s annual evaluation report should email their request to the project director, Brenda Cotton, at bcotton@highfields.org.