Temple university launches future scholars program to aid 120 low-income middle school students in Philadelphia through college

Temple University has unveiled the Temple Future Scholars program, a comprehensive initiative designed to mentor and prepare 120 seventh-grade students from seven Philadelphia public schools for higher education. This effort aims to make college more accessible to low-income, first-generation students.In collaboration with the School District of Philadelphia and Heights Philadelphia—a nonprofit focused on enhancing educational and workforce opportunities—the program plans to enroll an additional 200 seventh graders each year. The goal is to support approximately 1,200 students from seventh through twelfth grade, providing sustained guidance over six years to cultivate their academic talents and readiness for college.The Temple Future Scholars program offers monthly Saturday sessions on Temple's main campus during the academic year and a four-week summer program. Current Temple students, particularly those from similar backgrounds and participants in the Cecil B. Moore Scholars program, will serve as mentors, visiting middle schools to provide guidance and support.Inaugural Class and Participating SchoolsThe inaugural class, consisting of students already selected, will be celebrated at a kickoff event at Temple's performing arts center. These students will don T-shirts displaying their anticipated college graduation year. The first Saturday academy session is scheduled for March. Participating schools include Mary McLeod Bethune School, Morton McMichael School, Paul L. Dunbar School, Russell H. Conwell School, Tanner G. Duckery School, John F. Hartranft School, and Juniata Park Academy. Pathway to Temple PromiseStudents who successfully complete the program and meet the necessary qualifications will gain acceptance into the Temple Promise program. Launched in early 2024, Temple Promise is a last-dollar scholarship initiative that covers remaining tuition and fees for students from families with an adjusted gross income of $65,000 or less, after all other financial aid has been applied. In its inaugural year, nearly 500 incoming Temple students benefited from this program.Yearly Focus AreasStarting in seventh grade, the program's curriculum emphasizes different developmental areas each year:Year 1: Cultivating a scholar identityYear 2: Preparing for high schoolYear 3: Fostering self-empowermentYear 4: Encouraging social and civic engagementYear 5: Promoting research and discoveryYear 6: Focusing on college preparationIn a statement, Temple University President John Fry emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, "This is the type of program that can dramatically raise the educational aspirations of students and their families, leading to positive outcomes for all involved." The program reflects Temple's dedication to community engagement and its mission to provide educational opportunities to all. By investing in local youth through the Temple Future Scholars program, Temple University aims to break down barriers to higher education and empower the next generation of leaders from Philadelphia.