Access Youth’s Program Model

  • At Access Youth, we believe that students succeed when they feel they belong. Our programs address the root causes of disengagement—not just the symptoms. By building authentic relationships and providing consistent support, we help students overcome barriers to attendance and behavior while developing the skills and confidence to thrive. 

  • Access Youth embeds full-time staff in 8 DC public schools in Wards 7 and 8, serving middle and high school students who are:

    • Facing chronic attendance challenges

    • Experiencing behavioral issues or struggling with conflict resolution

    • At risk of disengagement or dropping out

    Our staff become trusted members of the school community, working collaboratively with administrators, teachers, and families to provide wraparound support.

  • Every Access Youth program is built on four interconnected components:

    1. Relationship-Building

    We start by getting to know each student as an individual—their strengths, challenges, interests, and goals. Through consistent presence and genuine care, we build the trust that makes real change possible. Students learn they have an advocate who believes in them.

    2. Planning & Goal Setting

    Together with each student, we develop personalized goals and concrete action plans for improving attendance and behavior. Students take ownership of their progress while receiving guidance and structure to move forward.

    3. Accountability

    Change requires consistency. We provide regular check-ins, progress monitoring, and supportive accountability that keeps students on track. Our staff celebrate successes and problem-solve challenges alongside students.

    4. Opportunities & Incentives

    We create meaningful opportunities for students to develop leadership skills, connect with peers, and experience success through group sessions, workshops, celebrations, and incentive programs. These experiences reinforce positive identity and belonging.

  • Consistent Long-term Presence 

    Full-time staff embedded in schools build deep lasting relationships and provide daily support. 

    Individualized Approach 

    We recognize that every student's situation is unique and tailor our support accordingly. 

    School Partnership 

    We work collaboratively with school staff, complementing their efforts and strengthening the entire support system. 

    Proven Results 

    Our data-driven approach ensures we're delivering measurable outcomes for students and schools. 

    Focus on Belonging 

    By addressing students' fundamental need for connection and care, we create lasting change.

  • Truancy Prevention

    Building Pathways to Consistent Attendance

    Chronic absenteeism is one of the strongest predictors of student disengagement and dropout. But behind every absence is a story—transportation challenges, family responsibilities, disconnection from school, or deficiency of time management skills or motivation.  

    Our Truancy Prevention program identifies students with attendance challenges and provides intensive, personalized support to remove barriers and rebuild their connection to school. 

    How It Works

  • Restorative Justice In Schools

    Transforming Conflict into Connection

    Traditional disciplinary approaches often push struggling students further from school through suspensions, which robs them of critical instructional time and sets them further behind. Restorative Justice offers a different path—one that addresses harmful behavior while keeping students engaged, learning, and connected to their school community. 

    Our Restorative Justice in Schools program works with students who have been involved in behavioral incidents or conflicts, helping them take accountability, repair harm, and develop stronger conflict resolution skills. 

    How It Works

  • My Attitude Determines Everything (M.A.D.E.)

    Community-Building & Leadership for Girls  

    Access Youth listened to young women in our schools who were struggling with mistrust, disconnection, low self-esteem, and rising violent altercations. They told us what they needed: a safe space to reflect, connect, and grow. So we created M.A.D.E.—a sisterhood designed to build self-worth, camaraderie, and the social-emotional and leadership skills young women need to thrive. 

    What started as a small support group has grown into a powerful movement. Today, M.A.D.E. serves 250+ girls across all eight partner schools with weekly meetings during the school year and innovative summer programming that deepens connections and prepares students for life beyond high school. 

    How It Works