College Success Program

The College Success Program (CSP) is a free afterschool program in Salem and Peabody for junior and senior year students where you can explore and prepare for education and career options after high school, set post-secondary education goals, and take all the steps necessary to get there. Our College Success Program provides you with complete college preparatory services as well as regular mentorship all the way through post-secondary graduation.  

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After School Programs
Program Flyer

Program Goals

  1. Create a Vision for Your Life -  explore your interests, values, and priorities in order to set goals for your future
  2. Pursue a Plan to Get There -  complete the steps to pursue the educational pathway of your choice and learn important life skills along the way
  3. Minimize Debt -  identify scholarships, grants, and other funding sources to minimize debt to pay for post-secondary education

Program Schedule

Program Design

Our supportive staff help students every step of the way:
  • Exploring college and career options
  • Completing college applications
  • Seeking financial aid and scholarships
  • Receiving consistent mentorship throughout college

High School Junior Topics

  • Self-exploration (strengths and values)
  • Career exploration and readiness (including resume writing)
  • Scholarship search
  • College and/or post-secondary research
  • College campus visits
  • List of colleges and/or post-secondary programs to apply to as a senior
  • College application essay draft
  • Financial literacy and other life skills needed to be a successful adult

High School Senior Topics: 

  • Aid with filling out college and/or post-secondary applications (especially revising the college essay)
  • Assistance in completing all financial aid paperwork
  • Applying for scholarships
  • Understanding financial aid award letters
  • Support in comparing and selecting best post-secondary education
  • Preparing for freshman year and the transition to college or other post-secondary education

Additional Benefits

  • Free daily snacks
  • Family workshops about the college application and financial aid process
  • Friendly staff of LEAP employees and volunteers
  • Post-secondary advising available after program completion
  • Transportation assistance may be available to students more than 1 mile from the program location who have no other way of getting to program
  • District COVID safety protocols in place

Student Eligibility

Open to any local students, with priority given to students from economically disadvantaged households, English Learners, students of color, and first-generation-to-college students.

Drew Mendes

Program Manager

For more program information, contact Drew Mendes using any method below:
Google Voice 6179823370
Email amendes@leap4ed.org

Norma Ramirez

Salem Site Coordinator

For more information, contact Norma Ramirez using any method below:

Google Voice978-414-5383
Email nramirez@leap4ed.org

Lia Applebaum

Peabody Site Coordinator

For more information, contact Lia Applebaum using any method below:

Google Voice978-705-1505
Email lapplebaum@leap4ed.org