West Liberty University

Project Name:

Hilltopper Pathways: Out-of-School Reentry & Support Program

Award Received:

$249,397.00

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Award Summary:

Funds are being used to implement Hilltopper Pathways, an out-of-school reentry and support program serving justice-involved and at-risk middle school youth across five Northern Panhandle counties. This investment supports structured, trauma-informed programming during the high-risk hours after school, combining academic tutoring, mentoring, social-emotional learning, physical wellness, and creative enrichment. Resources fund small-group instruction led by certified teachers, university faculty, and trained student mentors, along with family engagement activities that strengthen support systems. Delivered through partnerships with schools, day report centers, probation, and community organizations, the initiative improves attendance and academic outcomes, reduces disciplinary and juvenile justice referrals, and creates a sustainable model for youth prevention and reentry support.