Pioneer Scholars

Pioneer Scholars is a free, academic enrichment program serving academically-focused elementary and middle school students in Durham County who aspire to attend college after high school. The goal of the program is to establish a strong foundation of academic and leadership skills so that students enter high school ready to excel in a rigorous college preparatory curriculum that will put them on the path to admission at select colleges and universities.

Program benefits include:

• Small group instruction and skill building
• Academic benchmarking to assess college readiness
• Cultural, arts, and social enrichment activities
• Character and leadership skill building
• Career exploration for middle school students
• Parent and family engagement and support
• Summer enrichment programs

Our Pioneer Scholars have a passion for learning, demonstrate a positive attitude toward school, and are leaders within their school communities. Students must also demonstrate personal character, work-ethic, and integrity as evidenced by teacher recommendations, personal statements (for middle school applicants), and an interview process. 

To be eligible for Pioneer Scholars, students must reside in Durham County and meet financial eligibility requirements. The strongest candidates demonstrate academic commitment (mostly A/4 and B/3 grades) and have robust family support. Factors such as attendance, engagement in the classroom, behavior, and academic potential are also taken into consideration when making enrollment and retention decisions.

Pioneer Scholars is supported by an outstanding group of licensed, qualified educators we call Lead Tutors. Each Lead Tutor, supported by a small team of volunteers, has a high level of proficiency in teaching literacy, math, and STEM-related subjects. Lead Tutors facilitate well-designed instructional activities that engage students, accelerate learning, and address identified gaps in skills or proficiencies. This robust support model allows for both small group and one-on-one instruction based on student need. Throughout the academic year, families have the opportunity to consistently communicate with Lead Tutors concerning the progress and needs of their students.

The application window for the 2021-2022 academic year will open soon and will run through – April 1, 2021. Applications can be picked up at the Emily K Center or downloaded from the website. (Applications will be posted here as soon as they are available.)  Please call 919-680-0308 prior to coming to the Center to ensure the building is open. 

Applications will be reviewed after the application window closes, and student interviews will be held in late April and May. Students who most closely meet the admissions profile are considered the strongest candidates and will be contacted for an interview. Families will be notified of student selections by mid-July. The application process is a competitive one. Please check back for more details or contact us at ps@emilyk.org with any questions.