COLLEGE PREP PROGRAM

Escalera STEM is a national program that promotes economic mobility for youth. Targeting low-income, first-generation Latino students, Escalera supports students both personally and academically as they explore career paths, prepare for college, and develop leadership and technology skills.

This 2-year after school program follows students entering their junior year and follows them through their senior year, providing guidance and support through: the following:

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• A rigorous, semi-scripted curriculum that is responsive to students’ culture

• Self-Knowledge & Cultural History

• College Support: Applications, ACT, FAFSA, and Scholarships

• Career Exploration: Emphasis on STEM careers

• Soft Skills & Leadership Development

• Experiential learning activities

• Wrap around case management

• Internship opportunities

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Since 2014, our Escalera-STEM program has served 230 youth at three area high schools and graduated 140 (number includes those seniors expected to complete the program May 2021). Together, our Escalera graduates have received over $500,000 in scholarships from various public and private sources. At present, we're running one site in Jefferson Parish and are working on expanding into Orleans Parish.

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For more information, please contact Ashley Ortiz Chico at ashley@puentesneworleans.org.