FAQs

Who participates in the Young Scholars LPP?

Utica City School District teachers nominate sixth-grade students who are identified as possessing the potential for success in secondary and post-secondary school, but who may not achieve their full potential due to various social and economic risk factors. Each year, the Young Scholars LPP provides services to over 300 students that represent six cohort groups (grades 7 through 12).

Because parents and guardians play a vital role in their children's educational development, they are encouraged to take part in Program activities designed to provide ongoing support for and encouragement to participating students. Parents and guardians also have the opportunity to pursue their own personal development through Utica University Continuing Education courses and specially planned workshops held at the University.

What does the Young Scholars LPP offer students?

Young Scholars learn leadership skills during the summer camping trip.

The major components of the Young Scholars LPP are:

Academic support, tutoring, and special review sessions (September–June)
Counseling provided by social workers and staff (Year-round)
Summer programming on the Utica University campus for students in grades 7-12 (July)
Community service (Year-round)
Enrichment activities, along with college and career exploration (Year-round)
Mentor program involving community members (Year-round)
Parent involvement and parent education program (Year-round)
SAT Prep (Junior Year, January-May)

YSLPP continues to support program students from 6th grade into college, offering assistance for the entire 6-16 continuum. YSLPP offers:

A full-day summer program on the University campus to students in grades 7-9,
A full day summer program on the University campus to students in grades 10-12 that focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. Students participated in the third year of STEM Scholars in 2016.
Utica University undergraduate students act as tutors to all students in grades 7-12 either during the day or after school,
Adult mentors as role models,
A telephone help line that calls all YSLPP students,
Summer tutorial for all Regents classes (so that any student can retake a Regents exam in August if necessary),
A staffed resource room at each site to assist students on a daily basis to facilitate tutoring,
Working alongside a highly motivated group of peers generates high levels of student performance and persistence,
Enrichment, community service opportunities, and field trips.

How is the Young Scholars LPP funded?

In 1993, Utica College and the Utica City School District formulated an agreement outlining their mutual support of the Young Scholars program. Following receipt of a grant from Liberty Partnerships Program of the New York State Education Department in July 1994, the program became known as the Young Scholars Liberty Partnerships Program. Additional funds have been provided by numerous organizations and individuals, including The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, Inc.

How is the Young Scholars LPP managed?

Full-time staff members work directly with Young Scholars LPP students and supervise Utica University student tutors at three school sites. Administrative staff at the college coordinate curriculum, plan special events, and assist staff at the schools. An Advisory Board (consisting of representatives from the University, School District, and Greater Utica Communities) oversees the management of the Young Scholars LPP.

Is College Free For Young Scholars?

The Utica University Promise

College is not free. However, Utica University will offer admission to all students who successfully complete the Young Scholars LPP. Eligible students will receive financial assistance consisting of scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study allocations to meet their financial need. Financial need will be determined by the prevailing need-analysis methodology used at the time Young Scholars LPP students apply for admission.

Young Scholars LPP students are under no obligation to attend Utica University. Our students have enrolled at a number of excellent post-secondary institutions, the armed forces, and the workforce. The skills our students acquire in the Young Scholars LPP will help them succeed at any college or career.