The YES for PREP Community

A. 14-month Preparatory Component

The YES for PREP 14-month Preparatory Component consists of two intensive 7-week summer sessions along with Saturday classes and Wednesday evening workshops during the 8th grade school year. Summer academic classes meet Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Students are expected to complete several hours of homework each night. Each subject is taught by a different teacher. Class size is normally 14-15 students. During the school year (mid-September to early June), classes meet on Saturdays from 8:30 AM - 5 PM and required workshops are offered on Wednesday evening from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM. All classes meet at the University of Michigan - Dearborn.

During the first summer session and the 8th grade school-year, students take at least four academic subjects infused with research and study skills:

  • Literature
  • Writing
  • Mathematics - Geometry and Algebra
  • Science
  • History and Research Skills

During the second summer, students follow somewhat varying academic programs, and the range of possible courses is greater. Students may take courses to help them better understand their own development or engage in special leadership projects related to social and cultural development. In addition to academics, individual and group counseling sessions focus on adjustment to college preparatory high schools. Throughout, there is an emphasis on relating one's values to the decision-making process.

B. Placement in an Appropriate College-Preparatory High School

YES for PREP counselors work closely with each student and parent to guide them to an informed choice of an appropriate college preparatory high school. Each family is assisted through the various aspects of applying to a college preparatory high school, including visits, interviews, testing, completing applications, and applying for financial aid and scholarships. YES for PREP students may apply to YES for PREP partner schools to be considered for 9th-grade scholarship placements. However, the decision to admit a specific student to a specific school is made by the Admissions Committee at each participating school. The college preparatory high school selection process begins early in the fall with the application. The schools are generally ready to notify students by March if they have been admitted for the following academic year.

C. Academic and Social Development Counseling

Students who complete the Preparatory Component and enter a college preparatory high school continue to be members of YES for PREP. The program provides a "home-base", while encouraging its students to involve themselves fully in the life of their new school communities. We aim to keep in close contact with each student. Students in grades 9-12 are served by a YES for PREP Case Manager. Additionally, each student is assigned to a counselor, who regularly visits participating high schools to talk with the students and school personnel. Tutoring is available after school or on Saturday should extra help be needed.