Jump Start Compass (Cohort 1)

Compass is a 10-month, cohort-based leadership and readiness program for high school scholars (grades 9–11). The program supports scholars in leadership development, college and career exploration, academic readiness, safety awareness, mental and emotional wellness, and community engagement through structured monthly sessions and experiential learning.

Compass runs from March through December. Scholars participate in 1–2 sessions per month , with the primary meeting scheduled on the 4th Saturday of each month (except November and December). Some months may include an additional experience such as a college tour, career exposure, or service project. The program does not exceed two commitments per month.

Yes. Compass is a cohort-based program, and consistent attendance is required. The experience builds over time, and regular participation ensures scholars benefit fully from mentorship, group discussions, and experiential learning.

If a scholar misses a session, program staff will share any materials or updates. However, many sessions are experiential and discussion-based and cannot be fully replicated. Repeated absences may affect eligibility for special opportunities such as the week-long college tour.

Compass is designed with busy families in mind. Dates are shared in advance so families can plan accordingly. Families are asked to prioritize Compass commitments when possible, as consistency is essential to scholar growth and group cohesion.

Compass is a 10-month commitment. Families are encouraged to carefully consider their availability and financial readiness before enrolling. While open communication is encouraged, program fees and participation expectations remain in place in order to ensure program quality and fairness for all families.

Compass is intentionally designed to keep scholars engaged through interactive sessions, mentorship, Teen Socratic Circles, and experiential learning. However, participation requires commitment. Parents play an important role in supporting their child in honoring commitments they have chosen to make.

Compass welcomes scholars with a wide range of personalities and experiences. scholars are not expected to have everything figured out. Activities are facilitated in a way that encourages participation without pressure, allowing scholars to grow at their own pace.

Compass includes sessions focused on emotional awareness, stress management, self-regulation, and healthy coping strategies. These sessions are educational and skill-based and are not clinical counseling .

Scholar safety is a top priority. All sessions and experiences are:

● Supervised by trained staff and vetted mentors/chaperones

● Conducted with clear behavioral expectations

● Supported by emergency and safety protocols

● Fully chaperoned during all travel and tours

Scholars also receive situational awareness and safety education as part of the program.

Mentors and chaperones are trusted adults who are background-checked and trained. They support scholars during sessions, trips, and small-group activities and serve as consistent adult guides and mentors throughout the year.

The $85 monthly fee supports:

● Monthly leadership and readiness sessions

● Career exploration and experiential learning

● Academic readiness and study skills programming

● Mental and emotional wellness education

● Safety and situational awareness training

● Transportation, meals and lodging for October your experience 

100% of the monthly fee is allocated toward the week-long college and experiential tour, allowing families to spread the cost over time instead of paying a large lump sum.

Participation in the college tour is strongly encouraged and is a core part of the program. Eligibility depends on attendance, behavior, and payment status. If a scholar is unable to attend, tour-related costs are not refundable , as expenses are planned and committed in advance.

No. Due to staffing, planning, and travel commitments, all program fees are non-refundable, including missed sessions or early withdrawal. Families are encouraged to review expectations carefully before enrolling.

Payments are due on the 25th of each month.

● A 3-day grace period is provided

● Beginning on the 4th day after the due date , a $5 per day late fee is applied

● Late fees accrue through the 10th day past due

● If payment is not received by the 10th day , the scholar will be removed from the program and replaced from the waitlist

This policy ensures program sustainability and fairness to all families.

Families will receive periodic updates, reminders, and important information throughout the program though email and the Jump Start portal. Parents are valued partners and are encouraged to communicate with program staff as needed.

Compass maintains clear expectations for respectful behavior. Any concerns are addressed promptly and collaboratively with scholars and families. Continued participation is dependent upon adherence to program guidelines and behavioral expectations.

Compass complements other activities by focusing on leadership, decision-making, readiness, and life skills. While tutoring supports academics and sports develop physical skills, Compass prepares scholars for real-world transitions and long-term success .

Scholars complete the program with:

● A certificate of completion

● Micro-credentials or skill recognition

● Documented leadership and service experience

● Increased confidence, readiness, and direction

Compass uses an application process to ensure scholars and families are ready to commit. The program is most effective when participants are motivated, engaged, and willing to show up consistently from the beginning.

Families will receive direct contact information for program leadership and scholar specific mentor. All are encouraged to reach out at any time.