College & Vocational Programs

Pathways to Success Through Postsecondary Education

Continuing our 10-Year Promise, the East Palo Alto Academy Foundation (EPAAF) extends our assistance far beyond high school. Through these programs for EPAA graduates and their families receive the guidance and resources they need to persist and thrive in their educational pursuits.

We do this through two program tracks: College Success Program and Postsecondary Support Program.

The College Success Program is dedicated to assisting scholars pursuing their bachelor’s degree at a 4-year university.

The Postsecondary Support Program is for scholars attending a community college, vocational school, or trade apprenticeships with the goal of transferring to a 4-year university or earning associate’s degrees, career certificates, or trade licenses.

We implement these programs in the following ways.

EPAAF awards scholarships to EPAA graduates to help them overcome the financial hurdles of attending college or participating in vocational training/education. Since 2017, we have provided over $2.8 million in scholarships. By addressing their financial needs, EPAA graduates can focus on what matters most—their emotional well-being and academic success.
Every EPAAF scholar receives support from our dedicated staff. Our team members monitor their progress toward their postsecondary goals and help them stay on track. We provide social-emotional support and connect them to other services and resources to help meet their needs, and offer advice on accessing financial aid, external scholarships, and other available support.
Many incoming first-generation college students face challenges with enrollment and financial aid, known as “summer melt.” The Summer Strength Meeting helps students meet deadlines and make sure they are prepared to start college or their vocational program. EPAAF assists with paperwork and finalizing housing and transportation plans. This is also an opportunity for EPAAF staff to get to know incoming scholars, and their values, goals, and motivations. This helps our team provide tailored support when scholars encounter the less tangible social-emotional challenges of being a first-generation college student.
The Peer Leadership program increases community and navigational support for college students across all grade levels at universities where a large cohort of EPAA alumni attend. EPAAF Peer Leaders, who are upperclassmen, use their experiences to mentor their underclassman peers, improving their transition and overall college experience. They share valuable resources and advice, fostering a supportive and connected community.
With the help of our dedicated community volunteers, EPAAF is able to provide tutoring support for our scholars enrolled in challenging courses. Scholars can receive assistance via Zoom with test preparation, homework help, or clarification of complex topics.
For graduates unsure of their next steps or taking a break from school, we stay connected through periodic check-ins and updates on resources for future support.