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About the ProgramCreated in 1991, Jacob's Ladder is a proactive enrichment program for gifted children who have an extraordinary ability to excel academically, but who come from environments that make it difficult for them to succeed as leaders and high achievers. This seven year old academic and life skills mentoring program for grades four through eight has won the 1996 Virginia Gevernor's Partnership in Education Award. But the real winners are the "climbers" of Jacob's Ladder - the children who are given the gift of a brighter tomorrow. |
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Who are the Children of Jacob's Ladder?Many of them have never been outside of their own neighbourhood. some live in poverty. Some have difficult family lives. These are children who, without the guidance of this program and it's sponsors, might be lost to a world which could benefit from their skills and talents. How do we Find these Children?Children identified by public school systems as gifted are referred to Jacob's Ladder by teachers, parents, and other individuals who recognize a child in need. The program includes around 40 children from rural and urban areas of Virginia and North Carolina. Children begin in Jacob's Ladder after fourth grade and remain in the program through eighth grade. |
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How Does Jacob's Ladder Work?Upon application, the Jacob's Ladder staff, professional educators and trained advisors personally interview the children (Climbers, as they are called), their families and their teachers. This group conducts a thorough review of each child's academic, medical and social background as well as the child's special interest and abilities. The first rung of the Ladder begins with a residential program in the summer. It's a Family AffairClimbers are fostered with visits in their homes and schools by the Jacob's Ladder staff, through scheduled retreats, and with letters and calls throughout the year. Jacob's Ladder works hand-in-hand with the families of these children. In fact, no child is accepted in the program without the family's full understanding and participation. Special efforts are made to enrich a child's day to day environment through meetings with parents and teachers. |
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What Does Jacob's Ladder Do for a Gifted, At Risk Child?The program offers a gifted child a chance to become an exceptional adault. Because a child is gifted does not mean the child has the confidence to reach out for new challenges. A tremendous emphasis is put on helping a child become a well-rounded, socially adjusted, confident person. Self-discipline, good study habits and responsibility play an important part in the Jacob's Ladder program. The children develop supportive friendships with one another and with the adults who work with them throughout the year. The climbers learn to care about others and share their success. The Summer Enrichment ProgramFor up to six weeks, the children of Jacob's Ladder live on campus at and independant boarding school. Following a morning chapel service, Climbers participate in a diverse offering of academic programs as well as cultural and recreational activites. A typical day might include a seminar called Invention Convention, or the Mathematics of Navigation followed by a fishing trip, tennis, or swimming. Group outings might include trips to the Smithsonian Institution, a Shakespeare Festival or a trip to local historical and recreational locales (Jamestown, Williamsburg, Vriginia Beach). The "curriculum" of enrichment activities during this residential phase of the program is put together by a team of advisors including specialists in the field of working with exceptional children. |
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How Can I Help?The program is privately funded by individuals, corporations and foundations. The Climbers participate at no cost to themselves or their families. Jacob's Ladder encourages sponsorship relationships for these children throughout the year. Jacob's Ladder is a 501(c) (3) organization. For more information about helping an at risk gifted child, please send e-mail to Jacob's Ladder at jladder555@oasisonline.com, call 1-800-368-2870, or write:
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