Young Scholars Liberty Partnerships Program (YSLPP)

 

 

 

The Young Scholars LPP is a collaborative project between Utica College and the Utica City School District that was launched in 1993 in Utica, New York.  The multi-year program is designed by School District and College officials to meet the challenge of motivating teenage students to stay in school, earn a New York State Regents Diploma with the Advanced Designation, and pursue post-secondary education. 

Who participates in the Young Scholars LPP?

Utica City School District teachers nominate sixth-grade students who are identified as possessing the potential for success in secondary and post-secondary school, but who may not achieve their full potential due to various social and economic risk factors.  Each year, the Young Scholars LPP provides services to over 300 students that represent six cohort groups (grades 7 through 12). 

Because parents and guardians play a vital role in their children's educational development, they are encouraged to take part in Program activities designed to provide ongoing support for and encouragement to participating students.  Parents and guardians also have the opportunity to pursue their own personal development through Utica College Continuing Education courses and specially planned workshops held at the College. 

What are the goals of the Young Scholars LPP?

Students in the Young Scholars LPP participate in a comprehensive program providing academic, social, and cultural enrichment.  It is the intent of the Young Scholars LPP to help students achieve academic success by maintaining a C average or better, earning a New York State Regents Diploma with the Advanced Designation and enrolling in post-secondary education.  The Young Scholars LPP also seeks to develop students' personal characteristics, making strong individuals who are invested in their community.

What does the Young Scholars LPP offer students?

The major components of the Young Scholars LPP are:

• Academic support, tutoring, and special review sessions
  (September-June)
• Counseling provided by social workers and staff
  (Year-round)
• Summer Program on the Utica College Campus
  (July)
• Community Service
  (Year-round)
• Enrichment Activities and Career Exploration
  (Year-round)
• Mentor Program involving community members
  (Year-round)    
• Parent Involvement and Parent Education Program
  (Year-round)  

From the seventh grade until their graduation from high school, students selected to participate in the Young Scholars LPP receive counseling, complete community service projects, and attend enrichment activities.  Young Scholars entering seventh to ninth grades participate in summer school sessions held at Utica College; tenth through twelfth grade Young Scholars have educational field trips and college exploration as part of their summers.

Summer Program classes on the Utica College campus are designed to expand the services provided during the school year, prepare students for the next academic year, and give them the opportunity to experience a college setting.  Courses and enrichment activities are specially tailored to meet the needs of each class, thereby reinforcing learning skills and personal growth, and fostering sucess-oriented attitudes.  

What are the outcomes as of September 2005?

 

Overall, Young Scholars LPP students have a 96% graduation rate from high school.  Of these graduates, 75% earned a New York State Regents Diploma.  Upon graduation, 77% of Young Scholars LPP enroll in institutions of higher learning.

7-Year Summary of Post-High School Graduation Outcomes

254 High School Seniors, Class of 1999-Class of 2005

Enrollment Type	Percent
4-year college	56.3%
2-year college	20.5%
Military	2.8%
Employment	10.2%
Other	10.2%

 

 

 

 

How is the Young Scholars LPP funded?

In 1993, Utica College and the Utica City School District formulated an agreement outlining their mutual support of the Young Scholars program.  Following receipt of a grant from Liberty Partnerships Program of the New York State Education Department in July 1994, the program became known as the Young Scholars Liberty Partnerships Program.  Additional funds have been provided by numerous organizations and individuals, including The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, Inc.

How is the Young Scholars LLP managed?

Full-time staff members work directly with Young Scholars LPP students and supervise Utica College student tutors at three school sites.  Administrative staff at the college coordinate curriculum, plan special events, and assist staff at the schools.  An Advisory Board (consisting of representatives from the College, School District and Greater Utica Communities) oversees the management of the Young Scholars LPP

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