Summerbridge Pittsburgh Program

Since 1994, we have challenged nearly a thousand at-risk middle school students to embrace the Summerbridge Pittsburgh culture of excellence. At a time when the chances that an at-risk student will achieve academic success are ever decreasing, Summerbridge Pittsburgh (SBP) is working hard to reverse this trend.

Recent national studies indicate that only 59% of students living in low-income families and attending under-resourced schools graduate from high school. Less than half of those same students enroll in college. Summerbridge Pittsburgh believes that the best way to strengthen the future of our region is to cultivate the minds of young people. Most of our students come from Pittsburgh communities where economic opportunities are limited and the risks to children are greatest. Together, our students and young teachers create a unique learning environment of passion and high expectations. Our primary goal is to see our students graduate from high school and go on to acquire a college education.

Summer Program

For six weeks each summer, more than 100 rising seventh and eighth-grade students from public schools in the Greater Pittsburgh Region come to the Sewickley Academy campus for classes taught by high school and college students, who are recruited both locally and nationally. Our student to teacher ratio of 6:1 ensures that classes are small and that students receive close personal attention. Students study the core subjects of math, writing through literature, public speaking, and wellness. In addition, students are offered a variety of course options in the afternoon, including academic electives and fun mini-courses, both of which meet twice a week. Courses are designed and implemented by our creative faculty.

School-year Program

Summerbridge Pittsburgh doesn't end with the summer. Our staff follows the students throughout the school year, visiting them in their schools to encourage their academic progress and organizing special programming events to supplement their studies. The Summerbridge staff also serves as an informational and academic resource for students and their families. We work with parents and students to ensure that they choose the high school that best meets their needs. SBP has a tutoring program for its students, provides SAT preparation workshops, and organizes visual art workshops to build students' cultural interests. In other words, Summerbridge Pittsburgh equips students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in high school, college, and beyond.