Family Commitment
Steppingstone admits families, not just Scholars. Steppingstone's multi-year commitment to each child and family means that parents or guardians are involved in the process from the moment they fill out an application until the Scholar's graduation from college. Because of their experience, families who have participated in the program with one child frequently apply again with younger siblings.

Partnership with Placement Schools
Steppingstone works closely with the independent and public exam schools which are designated Steppingstone placement schools. The commitment placement schools make to the Steppingstone Scholars reflects their interest in becoming more inclusive educational communities.

Multicultural Learning Environment
Steppingstone believes that all children of every race and background deserve the opportunity that education affords, and that providing a heterogeneous environment is a more healthy and effective way to prepare children for success.