Project GRAD is Cost-Effective and Improves Performance

Project GRAD is a comprehensive, cost-effective program with a record of improving the academic achievement of students from low-income backgrounds. Project GRAD’s integrated approach to teaching and learning hinges on the five pillars of its structural approach. It is this unique structural approach that contributes to higher academic standards and offers the dream of graduation and college to all the students within a feeder system, or even an entire district.

The Five Structural Components

Project GRAD consists of five structural components that are implemented within an organizational structure to support its five program components. As indicated, GRAD’s theory of change asserts that education reform efforts should improve approaches to the teaching of basic skills and a strong academic program. These, in turn, should be implemented via a structure that has the potential to lead to sustainable systemic change.

The five structural components work hand in hand with the five program components to ensure Project GRAD's success in a feeder. They are the means by which Project GRAD provides evaluation, support and consistency for each site across the nation.

The Five Program Components

The five program components provide the academic and managerial structure within each GRAD school.  Project GRAD's instructional model focuses on implementing the following interdependent and mutually reinforcing components in all schools within a feeder system:

1. Mathematics

2. Literacy

3. Classroom Management

4. Social Services/Parent Involvement

5. The High School Program