Next to food, family and safety, education is the single most important element of Mercy Home’s care for its children. But unfortunately, because many of our young people arrive here a year or more behind in school due to poor attendance, lack of guidance, untreated learning disorders and other factors, education is also one of their biggest struggles.
That is why our focus on academic achievement is so strong. Education impacts every aspect of our kids’ lives, and is critical in providing the confidence and discipline they need to achieve lasting success.
Academic and Educational Programs for Youth in Need
Mercy Home’s academic programs are collectively known as The Academy. These programs begin from the moment our young people come through our doors, with assessment testing and individualized school placement for each child, and continue as they work to catch up in school, prepare for college and look for a job.
The Academy includes the following academic programs:
- After School Program
- Dream, Believe, Achieve! College Prep Program
- Career Resources and Community Service
These programs have an incredible impact on our children’s lives – in fact, 96% of our eighth and 12th graders graduated last year.
Just a few examples of our kids’ successes include Lydia, who went on to earn her master’s degree in business from the University of Chicago; Judah, who is studying to become an engineer; and Martell, a budding songwriter who found the support here that he needed to excel in his high school classes.
