Our middle school programs include ENLACE, One Circle, and Aspire Summer Academy. Learn more about all these programs here.
ENLACE—ENCOURAGING LATINOS TO ACHIEVE EXCELLENCE
![]() Guided by Latino male college students and leaders from the community, the boys are provided with mentorship and positive role models. By participating in life skills workshops and engaging in resiliency-based activities, the boys are provided with opportunities to develop discipline and gain insights into their identities, culture, and the Worcester community. Moreover, the program instills in them a profound appreciation for education and helps them understand the impact that pursuing post-secondary education can have on their own lives and the lives of their families. | ![]() “ENLACE has shown me how I can still have a big chance of getting into college one day.” —Brian Fernandez, 2023
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One Circle
![]() | Testimonial by Student “I enjoyed this experience of learning how to control my body when I am really frustrated or stressed. One Circle is one of the best experiences I’ve been involved in and I believe any other girl who’s interested should experience it because it’s incredible.” “I really recommend One Circle because I really enjoyed Zumba, yoga and the activities and it was a really fun experience.” |
Aspire Summer Academy
![]() ASPIRE participants build their sense of community within Worcester. They collaborate on community-based improvement projects (project-based learning) that help to solve real-world issues using what is most important, their voices. Students develop ownership for their learning and take initiative through projects and problem solving focused on real life struggles and challenges. Furthermore, the program offers a variety of trips and on-campus activities to expose them to potential future careers in STEM and the arts, and helps them view themselves as agents of change. | ![]() “I like ASPIRE because it’s fun and I get to meet new people while learning more about Worcester. ASPIRE has made me learn more about my city and helped me to learn more skills.” —Leah Cruz (2023) “In ASPIRE, it’s worth it to come. We get to go on a lot of trips and spend time with our friends. I like coming to the program.” —Mia Montalvo (2023) |