Horizons Academy
JCCGCI’s Horizons Academy program provides academic and motivational support to improve graduation rates and provide college and career preparation services for high-risk students from low-income families attending Coney Island’s Abraham Lincoln High School.
About Horizons Academy
Horizons Academy, a program of JCCGCI, serves high-risk students from low-income households who attend Abraham Lincoln High School in Coney Island, Brooklyn. Our mission is to help students overcome academic and personal challenges, stay engaged in school, and graduate with a clear plan for the future. We are proud to support the next generation as they pursue higher education and meaningful careers.
Program Highlights and Student Experience
Horizons Academy offers a comprehensive range of services designed to motivate students, strengthen academic performance, and prepare them for life after high school. Key components of the program include:
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One-on-one counseling and individualized support
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Homework help and tutoring
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SAT preparation and college readiness workshops
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Financial literacy education
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Enrollment in CUNY college courses with the opportunity to earn 2–6 credits over two years
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Paid spring internships
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Paid summer employment opportunities
We collaborate with professional guidance counselors to develop customized service plans for each student, ensuring their unique needs and goals are fully addressed.
Our Results
The Horizons Academy program achieves phenomenal results. Since 2013, students participating in Horizons Academy (who came to the program at risk for dropping out) have had an amazing 100 percent graduation rate, compared with a New York City graduation rate of 70 percent. Over 85 percent of the students not only graduate high school, but also go on to college the fall after graduation; 90 percent of those who start college remain in school the following semester.
Why Horizons Academy Matters
In New York City, the high school graduation rate for the class of 2023 was approximately 82.8% Chalkbeat.
Beyond high school, the college enrollment rate for NYC public high school graduates has remained relatively steady, with about 74% enrolling immediately in college as of 2017 Chalkbeat.
Nationally, the average first-year college retention rate is approximately 70.6% .
These outcomes highlight the significant impact of Horizons Academy in supporting at-risk youth to achieve academic success and pursue higher education.
Equal Opportunity Program
Horizons Academy is an equal opportunity program. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful environment for all students—regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or disability. Every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, and we strive to make that possible.
Funding
We would like to thank our Horizons Academy program funders, NYS Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) and the Pinkerton Foundation.
