PEAK Welcomes Class of 2024

During PEAK’s freshman orientation, our incoming scholars got some early practice for the hybrid learning model many will follow when they enter Holy Trinity High School school next week. They met in person day one on the open air rooftop at Five and Dime in Evanston, and online for the rest of the week-long program.

Like all PEAK scholars, they are entering high school with average grades or test scores. However, these students are anything but average. The class is full of intelligent, compassionate, and collaborative individuals who are sure to thrive with the financial, personal, and educational support that PEAK provides.

Some aspire to achieve a 3.0 GPA or better this fall, start a student club, or join the soccer team. One rigorously took notes and typed questions in the Zoom chat during Wednesday’s Intro to College session. Another opened up to all her new classmates about who she is deep inside. Many had questions for PEAK alums Lavelle ‘18 and Lorena ‘20 and current PEAK scholar Myasia ‘22 about high school and about the four-year mentoring experience they are about to embark on.

In the words of one incoming PEAK scholar, “I learned a lot during my PEAK orientation. A lot was helpful, and a lot was inspirational. I enjoyed every word of advice and story each person gave. One powerful statement that will stick with me is to ‘always keep the end in mind.’ That phrase is just so meaningful and inspirational. That quote will get you far if you put thought to it.”

In the face of new challenges and difficulties - whether illness, loss of jobs or business, or managing a family and a household under rapidly changing circumstances - the new scholars and their families are determined to make the best of the necessary changes in learning and mentoring this school year will require.

We eagerly look forward to connecting each of these bright young people with his or her mentor on Match Night this September. Welcome to the PEAK community, Class of 2024!