Summer on the Hill is a unique, year-round, supplemental enrichment program for academically talented, disadvantaged New York City public school students. The program complements the students' public school education by providing stimulating, year-round enrichment and guidance. The program is housed on the Horace Mann campus in the Bronx, New York.
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History
Summer on the Hill was founded in 1994 by Dr. John McIvor. After 26 years in the priesthood, Dr. John McIvor was in a new position as Assistant Director of Admissions of the Horace Mann School. The Horace Mann administrators wanted to start an enrichment program for promising, disadvantaged, public school children. Horace Mann alumnus, Bruce Brickman, contributed seed money for a pilot summer program and a group of Bronx public school children were chosen to attend classes at Horace Mann in the summer of 1994. That first summer was so successful that the Horace Mann School agreed to donate its facility for a permanent program and Summer on the Hill was born. Dr. McIvor is still the Executive Director of Summer on the Hill.
Mission
SOH’s mission is to enrich the education of promising, disadvantaged public school students from the Bronx, Washington Heights, and Harlem. Summer on the Hill is dedicated to preparing its students for admission to selective schools and colleges. Summer on the Hill also offers guidance to parents at every level so that each child may realize his/her goals regardless of their economic situation.
Elementary Level
Summer on the Hill is a six-year program for children in grades 3-8. Summer on the Hill recruits second graders from every elementary school in the Bronx and upper Manhattan. Each school nominates their best students. Applicants are then screened by Summer on the Hill. Admissions is highly competitive and SOH only accepts about 15% of all applicants. Once accepted into the program, the children must attend the full six week summer program. In addition to the summer, the students must also attend Saturday classes throughout the academic year. Tuition is free for the families.
High School Level
Summer on the Hill’s High School Program offers free SAT, writing, and academic review classes. SOH also offers supervised college visits and also counseling, internships, and community service opportunities.
College and Beyond
Summer on the Hill is always available to support former students. Currently there is a mentor program and also SOH sponsors social events to encourage networking.
Funding
Summer on the Hill depends entirely on private donations from both companies and individuals. The SOH community is deeply grateful to the Horace Mann School and also their funders. Hundreds of children benefit from their generosity and are afforded the opportunity to achieve their dreams.