The Steppingstone Academy prepares motivated urban schoolchildren for acceptance and success at top independent and public exam schools in the greater Boston area. After gaining admission to The Steppingstone Academy, Scholars participate in a rigorous academic preparation component that spans 14 months for students applying in fourth and fifth grades. After Scholars are placed into their new school, Steppingstone provides comprehensive support services,including college counseling, through middle and high school. After graduating from high school, Scholars stay connected to Steppingstone through Alumni Relations.

The Steppingstone Academy admits students in two grade levels:

Academy Six: Students seeking placement into an independent school in the sixth grade apply to Academy Six in the fourth grade and begin the 14-month academic component the summer before fifth grade.

Academy Seven: Students seeking placement into an independent or public exam school in the seventh grade apply to Academy Seven in the fifth grade
and begin the 14-month component the summer before sixth grade.

What Makes Us Unique?

• Family Commitment
• Partnership with Placement Schools
• Multicultural Learning Environment

Preparation and Placement

Over the course of 14 months, Scholars take Steppingstone classes after school, on Saturdays, and during two summers to prepare them for the challenging academic environments they will experience at their new schools. During this time, Steppingstone staff members work closely with Scholars and their families on all aspects of the independent and public exam school application process.

Support Services

After completing the 14 month program, Steppingstone provides support services such as counseling, academic support, and college guidance to ensure that Scholars thrive personally and academically in their new schools.

Apply to the Academy