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STEP Prep

STEP Prep is an academic enrichment program designed to help students graduate high school, earn career readiness certification, and prepare for and attend college and other post-secondary pathways that lead to 21st century careers. It is offered to 11th and 12th grade students at the Memphis City Schools (MCS) Prep Academies: Northeast Prep Academy, Northwest Prep Academy, Southeast Prep Academy, and Southwest Prep Academy. Managed by MCS, the Prep Academies are charter schools committed to educating over-age for grade high school students.

STEP Prep students enroll in Career Connections and Career Success and Management, a sequence of courses that meet from 2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. on the weekdays. The courses count toward earning a high school diploma and are offered over two consecutive semesters.
 
Using a co-teaching model, a Memphis City Schools teacher and a STEP Coach engage students in a dynamic learning environment that fosters post-secondary and career exploration, work readiness training, financial literacy, and community volunteerism. The following programs offered through the courses provide an opportunity for STEP Prep students to earn career credentials and college credits even before they graduate high school:
  • Career Readiness Certificate (CRC): Students earn this nationally recognized certification of proficiency in three WorkKeys competencies – Reading for Information, Applied Mathematics, and Locating Information. Employers have identified these capabilities as essential for workplace success. Students with a CRC have a competitive advantage in their job search.
  • Dual Enrollment: Students participate in the MCS dual enrollment program through local post-secondary institutions and earn college credits while completing high school. Students become acclimated to college life while taking college classes for credit. This experience motivates students to take the next step and continue their post-secondary education. 
In addition, STEP Coaches work with STEP Prep students to:
  • Devise individualized action plans that define the priorities, goals and actions that students need to accomplish to graduate high school and chart a post-secondary pathway;
  • Prepare college applications, personal statements, financial aid forms, and scholarship applications;
  • Develop resumés, interviewing skills and professional networking skills; and
  • Plan and participate in community service projects. 
STEP Prep also prepares students for success by connecting them to exciting opportunities, inspiring leaders, and innovative resources:
  • College Fairs: Students tour local colleges, community colleges, and technical training programs, and participate in e-tours of others. Admission and financial aid officers visit students in class, and virtually, to share information about programs, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities.
  • Career Exploration Speakers and Seminars: The Mayor’s 100 team of volunteers conduct in-class seminars and workshops on topics including career exploration, local industries, job trends, and the culture of the workplace.
  • STEP Challenge Rewards: A web-based incentive program for which students earn points for completing community service projects, submitting bonus assignments, and high attendance records. All points are redeemable for prizes.
     

Programs