In this episode we interview Nate Pietrini, Ed.D., Executive Director at High Jump. High Jump equalizes access to education for Chicago middle school students who have exhibited academic ambition and potential and who are of limited economic means. We provide academic enrichment, counseling and support to students of diverse backgrounds, with the goals of sending our participants to superior college preparatory schools, ensuring their success while they are there, and enhancing their ability to gain admission to highly regarded four-year colleges and universities. High Jump empowers Chicago’s middle schoolers to become well-rounded leaders through our tuition-free programs, which offer one-of-a-kind experiences, resources, and educational support for curious and motivated 7th- and 8th-grade students who want to challenge themselves academically. We provide a holistic learning program to help learners develop the skills they need to thrive wherever they go. The program consists of six weeks of daily instruction in the summer and an average of two Saturdays each month during the school year. Our curriculum exposes students to culturally relevant literature, themes, rigorous math instruction, and experiential learning. What makes a student a scholar? A love of learning and a desire to seek experiences to challenge themselves socially and academically. Our students are intellectually curious and academically motivated; many are the first people in their families to attend college. Want to learn more, donate, or get engaged? Donate: https://highjumpchicago.org/donate Phone: 312-582-7700 Email: [email protected] Website: https://highjumpchicago.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/highjumpchi Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highjumpchicago/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/high-jump/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@highjumpchicago Guest Information Guest Name: Nate Pietrini, Ed.D.  Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-pietrini-ed-d-70652354/