How We Deliver
A scholar-centered program, focused on student success
Our scholars engage in a comprehensive 12-year program that combines academic enrichment, mental health support, college counseling, and leadership and career development.
We increase college access and graduation rates
- Intensive academic enrichment starting in 5th grade
- Placement on college preparatory pathways
- Academic counseling and support
- Personalized college counseling
We develop the next generation of diverse leaders
- Leadership and career development workshops and retreats
- Career exploration
- High school and college internship placement
- Professional development, networking and mentoring
- Supportive alumni network
We build foundations of critical thinking, resilience and belonging
- Supportive cohort environment
- Peer mentorship
- Comprehensive family support
- Holistic mental health support
- Cultural identity and resilience development
How We Deliver
Academic Enrichment
5th Grade
Scholars participate in an intensive 14-month experience in a supportive cohort environment designed to prepare them for placement on college preparatory pathways in public and private schools.
They build and strengthen foundational academic skills, cultural identity and resiliency over the course of two summer sessions and on Wednesday afternoons and Saturdays during the school year.
Overall, scholars complete the equivalent of one additional school year (1,000 hours) of academic enrichment.
Placement
Our strong partnerships with public and private schools ensure that students who successfully complete AEP can access college preparatory pathways in middle school and high school. We provide workshops, tailored application and financial aid support to assist scholars and families to maximize school choices.
Academic Counseling
6th grade through college graduation
Academic counselors visit scholars at schools and college campuses, provide advocacy with school administrators, offer social and cultural activities, tutoring, workshops, and annual retreats designed to build skills for academic success, college readiness, and graduation.
Families are supported through parent workshops, individual meetings and regular contact with academic counselors.
Leadership and Career Development
6th grade through college graduation
We develop potential and create access to leadership and career opportunities. Middle school students participate in workshops that foster skill-building, leadership development, cultural identity and resiliency. They also take part in field trips focused on career exploration and summer enrichment opportunities.
High school students participate in leadership development retreats and workshops focused on important civic and societal issues.
High school and college scholars receive summer internship opportunities, personalized career counseling, opportunities for career exploration and professional mentorship.
College Counseling
9th through 12th grade
We help scholars and families navigate the college application process and maintain strong relationships with college counselors at our partner schools and college admissions officers.
Our scholars receive customized, intensive college counseling and in-depth financial aid/college planning services. Rising seniors participate in College Knowledge Weekend.
“Rainier Scholars has not only helped me gain academic and professional opportunities, but also a sense of empowerment in determining the course of my life and the impact I want to make on the world.”
Miles, Cohort 4
Marist College ’16
Senior Software Engineer, Liberty Mutual Insurance
Attend a Program Tour
Join us for an in-person program tour to experience the power and scope of the 12-year Rainier Scholars journey.
Get Started
The 2023-24 application period will open in Fall 2023. Visit our apply page to learn more.