Leap Year

Leap Year is a nonprofit organization that is improving college success and literacy results in metro-Atlanta by recruiting first generation high school graduates to serve as second grade reading coaches through our yearlong community service and college readiness program. In our yearlong full-time program, Leap Year Fellows spend 20 hours per week as part-time second grade reading coaches. The Leap Fellows gain invaluable leadership and professional skills while they help young students improve their reading skills. The other 20 hours per week the Fellows work on college readiness through ACT prep, academic readiness workshops, applying to college/FAFSA, socio-emotional learning, and taking a real college class at Georgia State University for credit. During the year, the Fellows earn money monthly so that they may help pay bills and contribute to their household, ensuring they have the financial stability to participate in our program. Their Leap Year culminates entering college prepared to graduate, strengthening two generations of talented students by providing a second chance to fulfill their college and leadership potential while helping young scholars build a strong foundation in reading. When schools reopen in the Fall, Atlanta's low-income elementary students, graduating seniors and rising seniors will be left less academically and emotionally prepared for higher education. Given the impact of COVID-19, Atlanta’s students will need Leap Year’s intensive one-on-one academic support now more than ever and we aim to meet the growing need.