Reach for Excellence

The mission of Reach for Excellence is to empower determined leaders and expand their possibilities in the classroom, in the community, and in life.

Reach for Excellence is a tuition-free academic and leadership enrichment program that offers students of limited income a mix of academic, cultural, and community-based experiences that prepare them for the challenges of college-preparatory programs and high schools.

So many young people have talent but lack access to the tools and resources that will help them flourish. Your support can help change the course of a young person’s life.

Students at Reach for Excellence connect with talented and creative teachers, educational experiences and mentors who help them raise their expectations of themselves and what they can achieve. The ultimate goal is to equip graduates with the tools they need to succeed in high school and beyond.

Reach for Excellence students strive to triumph over adversity, develop as leaders, and pursue the path to college. The program requires hard work, commitment, and discipline, but the rewards can last a lifetime.

Reach for Excellence was founded by the Society of Mary and is hosted at Marist School in Atlanta, Georgia. The program began in 2001, the 100-year anniversary of Marist School, as an extension of the Society of Mary’s values and mission to provide educational enrichment to those who may not otherwise have access to it.

Though it is hosted by Marist School, Reach for Excellence is an independent 501(c)(3) that is responsible for its own funding and is governed by its own board of directors.

The program takes place during the student’s sixth, seventh, and eighth grade years. It includes both weekend and summer sessions. Summer sessions begin in mid-June, following the close of schools in Metro Atlanta.

The Reach for Excellence curriculum focuses on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills in several core areas: language arts, mathematics, and social studies. Reach exposes students to concepts, ideas, and models of thinking that prepare them for challenging college-preparatory programs and high schools. The program encourages interdisciplinary projects and activities.

Reach for Excellence faculty and staff prepare students for success with more than classroom education; the program also teaches etiquette, leadership, and contribution to society. Reach for Excellence students form a community of like-minded young people who strive to better their opportunities in the classroom and in life.