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York
City Scholars Program
YCDFS initiated the York City Scholars program in 2003, building on a vision shared by a small group of volunteers from York City Dollars for Scholars, a number of generous benefactors, principally the Blatner family, and staff from the York County Community Foundation.
The vision was to make post-secondary education more accessible for William Penn Senior High School students who need extra support attaining their educational goals. In most cases these students are the first in their families to pursue a college degree.
The York City Scholars program provides individual and group support, guidance, learning activities, exposure to various cultural events, personal enrichment opportunities, as well as trips to colleges. Students learn about educational options and careers.
The program was designed to serve about 20 students total per year, from Freshman to Senior year of high school.
In its seven years of existence, York City Scholars has served 47 students. Thirty-seven of those students have graduated from high school to date and 100% moved on to post-secondary education of their choice.
Due to financial constraints arising, in large part, from the impact of the economic recession, this program will be phased out when our last group of students graduates in
June 2012.
A group of York City Dollars for Scholars graduates is currently designing a new program that will provide a bridge of support from the senior year of high school through the first year of college with the goal of increasing college graduation rates.
Other past and current academic support programs:
Kaplan SAT Preparation Program
Ninety William Penn students enrolled in this 12 week nationally-known Kaplan Inc. SAT program. Students increased their test scores by an average of 70 points; some gained more than 200 points. This program is now provided by the York City School District and has been built into the regular William Penn curriculum.
Kaplan College Admissions Seminar - 2001
This 6-session Kaplan College Admissions Seminar was offered to William Penn students. Although the course was helpful,we concluded that students needed more intensive help during the application process.
Career Day – 1999 and 2000
In 1999 and 2000, YCDFS organized successful Career Days for all William Penn juniors. Thirty York professionals presented their professions and engaged students in discussions.
Pizza Party – 1999 - 2004
Every year, we organize a Pizza Party for new scholarship recipients during winter break from college. Besides socializing, we take this as an opportunity to ask the students about their adjustment to college. It is always enjoyable and interesting, and helps us with planning new programs. |
