Wednesday, June 20, 2012

About Us

The Pittsburgh Promise

The Pittsburgh Promise is a scholarship program created by the Pittsburgh Foundation and affiliated with the Pittsburgh Public School System to support and facilitate further education for high school graduates. The Pittsburgh Promise is aimed to enhance the growth, stability, and economic development of the community. The Promise strives to assist and motivate students to prepare goals and dreams for an education beyond high school and a vocational future. Activities provide students and families with the support and tools to prepare for higher education and improve academics,
through an increase in tutoring and mentoring, SAT preparation, and developing a healthier and safer learning environment. In addition, the increased success of Pittsburgh students will enhance the entire
community by improving the workforce of local companies, thus increasing the quality of life in the Pittsburgh region.

What is Promise Plus?

The Promise Plus is a program that complements “Pathways to The Promise” funded by the Heinz Endowment through a grant to Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Promise Plus adds components designed to develop awareness in both parents and students about the opportunities provided through college, to mentor students, to develop academic learning skills, and to demystify the application process for college. Students receive a firsthand experience at seeing what college is all about. During their time on campus they attend classes that will prepare them for college.

Elements of Promise Plus

  • Early school contact with students by university faculty and students through IUP student and faculty involvement in classrooms and support in the early grades.
    • Tutorial support 
    • Vocational planning with student and parent campus visits
  • Mentorship pairs in 6th through 9th grades with IUP faculty and students to provide contact with higher education
  • Dual enrollment programs 
    • Earn college credit during high school 
  • Pre-college programs which include:
    • Academic learning skills
    • Adjustment to college
    • Application process

Outcomes

  • Parents and students will have increased knowledge about post secondary options, applications and support needs.
  • Students who participate in this program will:
    • have significantly higher academic grades.
    • apply to college at a significantly higher rate than similar students.
    • graduate high school at a significantly higher rate.
    • be accepted to college at a significantly higher rate.
    • complete college at a significantly higher rate.
For infromation about the Pittsburgh promise or how to get involved with IUP's Promise Plus program email pittpromise@gmail.com.