Ask me about the new JEFFERSON...

Higher education has never been more important and more necessary. Provide your child with a unique educational experience. Help them envision a positive future.

HISTORY | Over the years, the struggles of Jefferson High School have been a major concern for the local NE Portland community - but finally a solution has been reached. Beginning in Fall 2011, students entering Jefferson High School as freshmen, will be automatically enrolled in the new Middle College for Advanced Studies program, and will also become a part of the SEI family.

Click here to read the article "Jefferson's Middle College Point Man" from The Portland Observer

WHAT IS THE NEW JEFFERSON | Beginning in Fall 2011, students entering Jefferson as freshmen will be automatically enrolled in the Middle College program for Advanced Studies. Through this program, students will be able to attend both Jefferson High School and Portland Community College to earn dual credits. The program offers a rigorous curriculum, well-designed freshman courses and a specialized plan for students, including: career exploration, volunteer service, job shadowing and internships. And don’t forget about the fun! Jefferson is preserving such proud and important social traditions as their powerhouse athletic program, the Jefferson Dancers, Prom, student government and of course, Commencement.

PARTNERS | This effort is a collaboration between Self Enhancement Inc., Portland Public Schools, Portland Community College (PCC) and Portland State University (PSU).

WHY CHOOSE JEFFERSON | The middle college program offers Jefferson students significant educational opportunities that cannot be found at other campuses. By participating in dual-enrollment, students can earn college academic credit prior to high school graduation, finish college early and reduce semester credit loads. Ambitious students will be able to earn at least one years’ worth of transferable college credit at little or no cost. By attending Jefferson, your child essentially just started college for FREE.

SELF ENHANCEMENT, INC | At the core of the Jefferson experience is the Self Enhancement Program which offers “wrap around” services; tutorial homework support; after school programs; and a one-on-one relationship with a school coordinator. SEI is dedicated to guiding underserved youth to realize their full potential and will provide support, guidance and opportunities to help each and every Jefferson student achieve personal and academic success.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS | All students residing in the current Jefferson boundary will have the option of enrolling in either the new Jefferson focus school or a “community comprehensive school.” Depending on where you live, that could be Grant, Madison or Roosevelt. Students from all over Portland Public Schools can apply to attend, but students living within the Jefferson neighborhood will be guaranteed a place at the school they select. However, students must make a decision, as there will be no “default” assignment.

APPLICATIONS | Don’t let your child miss out on this opportunity. Apply Early! The application process opens at 8AM on February 4th 2011 and closes at 5PM on February 28th 2011.

LEARN MORE | Want to learn more? We can help. Please contact SEI at (503) 249-1721 ext.257 or via email at RobinJ@SelfEnhancement.org.

DONATE | By expanding our services to the new Jefferson Middle College students, SEI’s resources have been stretched thin. Please consider making a gift today - any amount will be put to immediate use in rebuilding our community and the lives of our children.