This week, the Access Academy Fall Showcase highlighted the remarkable achievements of Manchester high school students enrolled in this innovative after-school program. Since its inception in 2010, Access Academy has empowered students to grow as lifelong learners, explore future pathways, and thrive academically, personally, and professionally.
Access Academy serves high school students from underrepresented groups, including English language learners, first-generation college hopefuls, and those facing economic or housing instability. By offering college-level courses taught by college students with support from professors, Meelia Center staff, and community partners, the program fosters mentorship and skills development. Students also earn Extended Learning Opportunities (ELO) credits, advancing them toward high school graduation.
This supportive framework creates opportunities for students like Mia-Rose Taylor, a Central High School senior and this year’s student speaker. Introduced to the program by her English teacher, Mr. Howe, Mia-Rose expressed her gratitude for Access Academy’s meaningful experiences.
“I’m really glad I chose to sign up this semester. I can tell the students and staff alike care about this program,” Mia-Rose said. She plans to pursue a career in policy or law, inspired by the program’s encouragement of intellectual curiosity and self-discovery. She left the audience with a call to action: “No matter your age, be curious and have an open mind.”
A student panel featuring Jon, Gigi, Ella, Oj, and Jeremiah offered insights into how Access Academy has shaped their futures. For Oj, a sophomore at Memorial High School, the program marked a turning point. “I’ve never been the type to think about my future seriously, but because of Access Academy, I have,” Oj shared.
Students spoke passionately about their favorite experiences, from dissecting a squid in marine biology to forming new friendships. Jeremiah, a freshman at Memorial High School, highlighted the practical applications of the program, saying, “My class helped with my business class at Memorial.” He also couldn’t resist praising the pizza.
The panelists emphasized the program’s supportive environment, with Gigi, a sophomore at Manchester School of Technology, noting, “There is a lot of support from instructors,” eliminating the need for extra hours outside of Access Academy.
Under the guidance of Director Liz Kirwan, a former ELL teacher at West High School and past chair of the Manchester Proud board, Access Academy continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact. Kirwan underscored the program’s role in providing “supplemental experiences” that align with Manchester School District’s goals and enhance student learning.
As the evening concluded, the Showcase served as a testament to Access Academy’s mission: to equip students with the tools and confidence to succeed in their academic and career pursuits. From fostering college readiness to nurturing lifelong friendships, the program is changing lives.
Access Academy exemplifies what’s possible when students are given the resources, mentorship, and encouragement to dream big and take ownership of their futures.
