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Scholars Achieve Record SSAT Score Increase
Reach Scholars Achieve 233% Increase in SSAT Scores
This winter, Reach 8th graders reached an exciting milestone in their high school preparation journey. As a cohort, students improved their SSAT scores by 233%, building on last year’s strong gains of 138%.
These results reflect both the determination of our scholars and the intentional preparation built into the Reach program. Students participated in two SSAT preparation workshops, one in the summer and another in the fall, led by Beth Bristow Tutorial Services, which helped strengthen academic skills and introduce strategies for approaching the exam.
Scholars also had the opportunity to take the SSAT multiple times, helping build confidence and reduce test anxiety. We hope these improved scores will open doors to more high school opportunities and provide Reach students and their families with meaningful choices as they navigate the admissions process.
Talking About College Readiness at Cristo Rey Atlanta Jesuit High School
In February, we had the opportunity to visit around 20 Reach Alumni attending Cristo Rey Atlanta Jesuit High School to talk about high school success and preparing for college.
Together, we explored an important question: Why does going to college matter? In a recent Wall Street Journal essay, Dartmouth President Sian Leah Beilock reminded readers that higher education must demonstrate its lasting value. As she writes, “A college education is one of the largest investments a family will ever make, and there must be an undeniable return.” She encourages institutions to be accountable for outcomes, asking whether graduates are finding meaningful work and contributing to their communities.
These ideas resonated strongly in our conversation with students as we discussed how education can open doors, expand opportunities, and empower young people to shape their futures.
It was an inspiring conversation about aspirations, perseverance, and the many paths that education can create for students and their families.
Join Us to Celebrate 25 Years of Reach for Excellence
This year, Reach for Excellence proudly celebrates its 25th anniversary. Founded in 2001 by the Society of Mary at Marist School, Reach was created to expand opportunities for talented low income middle school students across metro Atlanta.
Over the past twenty-five years, the program has supported more than 560 scholars, with 96% of graduates matriculating to college after attending college preparatory high schools across the region.
We look forward to celebrating this milestone with our community at the Reach for Excellence 25th Anniversary Dinner on March 26 at Marist School. There we will honor the founders, supporters and alumni who have shaped Reach’s journey. If you wish to join us, please purchase your sponsorship today so that we may recognize you on our sponsor list.
The achievements of Reach scholars are possible because of the encouragement, mentorship, and generosity of the Reach community. Thank you for helping create opportunities that allow our students to dream bigger and reach higher.