| Frequently
Asked Questions
WHAT IS ESP?
ESP is a long-term strategy to develop
the leadership potential of able young students from
segments of society underrepresented in our region.
ESP is a 14-month, tuition-free, academic
program designed to prepare rising fifth graders for acceptance
into independent schools.
ESP is a vehicle for social change which
seeks out “the best and brightest” young
people who are willing to accept the challenge of transforming
their lives.
ESP is an affirmation that potential for academic excellence
exists at all economic levels.
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WHO
DOES ESP SERVE?
ESP seeks fourth grade students who demonstrate
motivation, academic promise, high character and leadership
potential. Typical ESP students are from low and middle
income families who will need significant financial
assistance to attend independent schools.
ESP serves the interests of independent
schools by aiding them to fulfill their commitment to
enhance and maintain the overall diversity of their
student bodies.
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WHY
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS?
ESP admits students to the private sector
in education because there it finds the combination
of high academic standards, individual attention, and
personal accountability that is essential to ensure
the success of the ESP student. Further, independent schools have a long-stated commitment
to increasing the economic, ethnic, racial, and religious
diversity of their student bodies.
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HOW DO
WE WORK?
ESP candidates apply and are admitted
while in the fourth grade. They participate in a seven-week
summer session as rising fifth graders. They attend Saturday
classes during their fifth grade year at their current
school. They also participate in a second seven-week summer
session as rising sixth graders. After the successful
completion of the second summer secession they will
be eligible to enroll in an independent school.
ESP offers a rigorous curriculum, small
classes, and personalized attention – all at no
cost to participating families. ESP students and their
families form a unique community that strengthens
the resolve of each student to master the unfamiliar
aspects of the independent school environment. Each
graduate's continuing membership in ESP will promote
a long term sense of social responsibility and increase
their potential for effective leadership.
ESP assists students and their families
in selection of and application to appropriate independent
schools. It is ESP's
expectation that any child who remains in good standing
in ESP will be admitted to one of the participating
independent schools.
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ONCE
ADMITTED TO A SCHOOL, IS FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE?
ESP students admitted to participating
independent schools are guaranteed financial aid to
the extent that each child's family situation warrants. ESP staff will help families with the financial
aid application process.
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