What We Do
Leap Year is improving literacy and college enrollment results in metro-Atlanta by recruiting first generation high school graduates to serve as reading coaches through our community service and college readiness gap year program.
![nottooyoungpicwithfellows (3) nottooyoungpicwithfellows (3)](https://theleapyear.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/nottooyoungpicwithfellows-3.jpg)
The Model
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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.
![destinyhelpingstudent](https://theleapyear.org/wp-content/uploads/bb-plugin/cache/destinyhelpingstudent-1024x768-circle.jpg)
College Readiness
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.
![ACT Books (4) ACT Books (4)](https://theleapyear.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/ACT-Books-4-rotated.jpg)
Earning While Learning
During the year, the Fellows earn $550 per month so that they may help pay bills and contribute to their household, ensuring they have the financial stability to participate in our program.
![Passed Accuplacer (2) Passed Accuplacer (2)](https://theleapyear.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Passed-Accuplacer-2-scaled.jpg)
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.