Seize the moment

children in private high schools,” Williams notes. “As of last school year, we’ve awarded more than $8 million in high school and college scholarships and financial aid.”

The third part of the equation is counseling. Access Academies starts when students are in sixth grade, and staff continues working with them through their entire academic journey, a more than 11-year partnership. Graduate support directors help middle schoolers prepare and make important decisions about secondary school. That guidance continues through students’ senior years, when a college and career counselor takes over. “That individual attention and commitment makes the difference as students transition to—and persist in—their next level of education,” Williams says. “Our strong and trusting relationships allow us to understand their needs and help them address challenges.”

On June 1, Access Academies will hold its 14th annual Celebration Dinner at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis. The evening will showcase the achievements of Access students and feature two performances from organizations that provide enrichment, Encore STL and Prolific People, which was founded by an alum. The nonprofit also will honor former board member Marie Kenyon, director of the Peace and Justice Commission for the Archdiocese of St. Louis. “The Celebration Dinner supports every facet of Access Academies, from enrichment programming to helping make private school tuition affordable,” Williams notes. “The support is vital to the success of our children and, in turn, the success and vibrancy of the region.” &