Access Opens Its Doors to Students From All Middle Schools

For the first time in Access’ 20-year history, students outside our traditional partner middle schools are invited to apply for the program—and the response has been outstanding! This spring, 42 rising 8th graders and their families successfully completed the inaugural application process, which included an informational session at Saint Louis University, submission of academic records, and a family interview.

This shift marks a significant evolution for Access: Not only is the program open to students from all middle schools (although preference is given to families who are first-generation and/or exhibit financial need), but it now starts in 8th grade with a full year of programming at Saint Louis University. The Access 2 High School (A2HS) program at SLU is focused on high school preparation, high school selection/application process, essay writing, financial literacy, and podcasting/videography.

The incoming class represents a broad mix of middle schools from across the region, including St. Cecilia, St. Louis Catholic Academy, Compton Drew, Hazelwood North, Parkway North, Principia, St. Francis Cabrini, and Whitfield. Families will take the final step in the admission process at the A2HS contract signing ceremony this weekend, officially launching their Access journey. We’re thrilled to welcome this next generation of students!