Founded in 1990, The Steppingstone Foundation is a non-profit organization that develops and implements programs to prepare urban schoolchildren for educational opportunities that lead to college. Grounded in the belief that children can achieve at high levels – regardless of circumstance – when they are prepared in a focused and demanding academic environment, Steppingstone programs emphasize high standards and achieve meaningful results.
The Steppingstone Academy prepares students for acceptance and success at top independent and public exam schools in the greater Boston area. Following admission to The Steppingstone Academy, students participate in a rigorous academic preparation component that spans 14 months. During this time, students take Steppingstone classes after their regular school day, on Saturdays, and during two summers in order to develop the skills necessary to succeed in the challenging environments at partnering schools. Steppingstone takes pride in its commitment to family involvement, its multicultural learning environment, and its partnerships with placement schools.
After completion of the 14-month program, Steppingstone provides comprehensive services such as academic support, mentoring, and college guidance to ensure that Academy graduates thrive academically and personally in their new schools. This investment in students has paid off—well over 90% of the students have graduated from high school and have attended four-year colleges, and they are enjoying successful careers in Boston and around the world.
The Steppingstone Foundation has a commendable reputation for its efforts with inner city students who have high potential but limited opportunities, preparing them for success at academically competitive schools as a pathway to college. The trustees are deeply impressed by the model developed by founder and Executive Chairman Michael Danziger and his staff, and are proud to support the ongoing work of this dedicated group of educators and advocates for children.
