Support for STAR Academy

Lehigh University's S.T.A.R Academy has received a donation from TD Bank to continue its early academic intervention program. Through the initiative, Lehigh Valley middle and high school students will receive assistance in their primary education and help in preparing for college.
The S.T.A.R. Academy (Students That Are Ready) is coordinated by Lehigh University’s Office of Academic Outreach and is designed to enrich and enhance the academic performance of at-risk students. The program provides a robust agenda—hands-on learning, academic activities, college and career counseling, one-on-one tutoring, interaction with positive role models and time on Lehigh’s campus—encouraging parental involvement. Through these opportunities, students will improve their reading, writing and communication skills in addition to their critical thinking and study habits.
“Students will have a yearlong experience at Lehigh University where they will take on an enriching academic journey that includes arts, sciences, engineering, technology, as well as the humanities,” said Angela Scott, Lehigh’s Director of Academic Outreach. “Our students and professors interact with them in engaging sessions, workshops and classes. Imagine the impact on a student who is able to stand just for a moment on one of the Zoellner Arts stages!”
On average more than 100 students in grades 6-12 attend the program. Students meet 13 days per year at the university where they spend intensive days learning from Lehigh professors and receive personalized tutoring and mentoring from Lehigh students.
“It’s incredibly meaningful for TD Bank to be able to partner with institutions like Lehigh University and participate in programs like S.T.A.R. Academy through the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program,” said Greg Morgan, Regional Vice President of TD Bank for Bucks and Lehigh County. “Lehigh and TD Bank have the same goals—to help the community and to further education. To partner with Lehigh has been a tremendous opportunity and we want to continue it for years to come.”
Founded in 1989, the S.T.A.R. Academy has created a legacy of positive results. The program’s graduates frequently go on to college and graduate school, and these alumni laud the program for having a profound impact on their lives and careers.