Springboard Academy was launched by Milton Hershey School (MHS) to address the special challenges that are part of the middle-school years. Taking a page out of Mr. Hershey’s “playbook,” Springboard Academy will use innovative, non-traditional methods to help students transition into MHS. We want to help students discover their talents by providing exciting opportunities to learn by doing.

The staff at Springboard Academy thrives on creative thinking, a genuine enthusiasm for experiential learning, and the proven ability to build strong relationships with students. Guided by MHS’s Mission and Sacred Values, these relationships will help our students reach their full potential. Each child will have goals dealing with social, wellness and life skills, academic readiness, and stronger family connections.

Our objective is to facilitate student success despite difficult circumstances that our students may have experienced. The key features of the Springboard Academy program include:

• Hands-on learning curriculum
• Tailored student success plans focused on individual strengths
• 24-hour staffing by qualified, caring mentors
• Healthy mix of structure, responsibility and fun
• Special programs to keep parents/sponsors connected to their child and MHS

In addition to providing children with extra support during this crucial transition stage, the Academy is designed to help each child discover his or her own strengths, talents, and unique ways of contributing to our community.