First Star Academy

 

 

Program Overview

First Star Academy is a college preparation program for high school youth who receive foster care services. First Start at Illinois State University serves college-bound foster youth in Central Illinois and includes monthly Saturday workshops, year-round academic mentoring, life skills classes, and quarterly caregiver engagement. Program participants also reside on Illinois State University campus for two weeks during the Summer Immersion Program.

Mission Statement

Established in 1999, First Star Academy is a national non-profit that improves the lives of foster youth by partnering with child welfare agencies, universities, and school districts to ensure foster youth have the academic, life skills, and adult supports needed to successfully transition to higher education and adulthood.  

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• Application
• Scholars
• Caregivers
• Get Involved

Core components of First Star Academy at Illinois State

• Monthly Saturday college preparation, academic, and life skills classes on the campus of Illinois State University
• Residential experience on Illinois State University campus during the two-week Summer Immersion Program. While participating in the Summer Immersion Program, scholars engage in:
  • Academic instruction (e.g., Math, STEAM, English)
  • Life skills (e.g., Healthy relationships, Self-esteem, Financial literacy, and Independent living)
  • College success (e.g., College and career planning, Study skills, and Resume writing)
  • Community Service and Artistic expression
  • Group reflections, Self-awareness, and Mentors
  • Enrichment activities (e.g., Recreation; game night, and field trips)