EAP Program offers benefits for mentors and mentees alike

Every year academically strong students at HCHS are appointed by their teachers to the EAP (equity and advanced placement) Program. This program was first initiated by a social studies teacher, Chris Snow, in hopes of diversifying Advanced Placement classrooms while increasing a better environment for students and teachers. Mentees (Freshmen and/or Sophomores) are personally appointed by teachers to obtain support throughout AP classes by mentors (Juniors and Seniors).

This program has beneficially contributed to better performances within a classroom setting of HC, as diversity has played a major role. Specifically, the EAP Program is motivated to give students academic support, in which welcoming more diversity to those joining AP classrooms.

“That’s the biggest change, that’s the biggest benefit of the program, is the emotional support given to these kids when they first take their AP class,” Snow said.

Until the EAP program was created, AP classrooms were often only attended by those of privilege and advanced education.

“The more diversified the classroom is, the more fun it is,” Snow states.

Mentors are required to meet 30 minutes a week with their given mentor in hopes of influencing them academically. HC Senior mentor Sam Clark has been a part of the program for two years.

“I enjoy it,” Clark said. “It’s good to know that you are helping people out.”

HC former mentee, Aniaya Timberlake, is now transferring as a mentor.

“I saw big improvements in my grade,” Timberlake said. “I had other people tell me what to do, and how I should handle things.”

Timberlake views about how new students would feel about joining their first Advanced Placement classes.

“It allows me to have a different perspective,” Timberlake said. “This might be their first class and they’ll see how I’m handling my second one.”

For mentors, the program acts as a class to which you are graded consistently every week for meeting up.

“It raises your GPA a bit which is nice, hopefully, at least that’s the mission,” Clark said.

With all the time and hard work given, the outcome of EAP has shown HC’s potential of accompanying great change. As marking its sixth year, this year will be just as great for students and teachers.