Summer Session

The Steppingstone Academy Hartford begins with a Matriculation Ceremony.  Matriculation acknowledges Scholars’ entrance into The Academy and instills a sense of purpose before classes begin. Scholars recite the HYSF Matriculation Oath, and receive a Matriculation Certificate.

Prior to the start of classes, Scholars and families attend Summer Academy Orientation.  During orientation, Scholars receive their Scholar’s Handbook and parents received the Parent’s Handbook.  HYSF staff outline Academy rules and expectations.  Clear expectations and consistent reminders of those expectations increase the chances of retention, and prepare Scholars and families for the standards they must meet to be successful in high school and in college.

Scholars soon realize why we say The Academy is rigorous.  During the first weeks of Summer Session 1, Scholars report doing between 4-6 hours of homework a night.  By Week 2, Scholars improve in their study and time management skills (both classes at The Academy), and homework takes them approximately 2-3 hours/night. Attendance, excellent behavior, and completed homework are required.   If a Scholar receives six homework slips, he or she is dismissed from the program.  Scholars who display inappropriate behavior are issued a behavior slip, and can only accumulate three before being removed from the program.  If a Scholar gets a homework or behavior slip, he or she must meet their advisor immediately, and both call home to discuss with parents.