Step-Up Services

Fellow Recruitment and Training

Step-Up’s success begins with its fellows. Each year, the program recruits UK students from diverse majors—including education, the social sciences, STEM fields, and the humanities. Fellows receive comprehensive training grounded in Socio-emotional learning, trauma-informed mentoring, and culturally responsive practices.

High-Impact Tutoring

At the heart of Step-Up is a commitment to improving literacy outcomes through high-impact tutoring. Trained Step-Up fellows work side by side with K-12 teachers and community partners to deliver small-group and one-on-one instruction that reinforces classroom learning. Each session is designed to reinforce classroom instruction with targeted, data-informed support, and build confidence and motivation among students who struggle with literacy. 

Mentorship and College Readiness

Step-Up recognizes that success in school is tied to students’ broader aspirations. Through structured mentoring, fellows help high school students build confidence, set goals, and envision the futures.

Mentorship activities include:

• ACT preparation and academic organization strategies
• College and scholarship application support
• Individualized guidance on postsecondary options
• Campus tours at the University of Kentucky for high school juniors and seniors 

These experiences often prove transformative, allowing students to see themselves as future college students and leaders in their communities.