SMART is a comprehensive eight-year program that provides low-income students in San Francisco access to an exceptional education and the skills needed to thrive in college and in life. SMART’s vision is to end the cycle of poverty in San Francisco by providing students and families financial, academic, and social emotional support, as well as college preparation and career exploration.
Currently, only 9% of low-income students graduate with a bachelor's degree. Moreover, only 21% of low-income students who enter college will graduate within six years.
SMART's impact on college achievement is clear: Since launching our College Achievement Program in 2011, 100% of SMART Scholars have graduated high school and enrolled in college, compared to a 78% high school graduation rate in California and a nationwide 48% college matriculation rate of their low-income peers. Furthermore, while only 21% of low-income students who enter college will graduate within 6 years, SMART Scholars are currently persisting in college at a rate of over 80%.
At SMART, we are working to reverse educational disparities by preparing our Scholars for college and career success. We are working to build a brighter, more equitable and inclusive future.