The Magis High School Program
The Magis High School Program is an academic, social, and cultural support program for students historically underrepresented at St. Ignatius and institutions of higher education. In addition to the academic and counseling resources that SI already offers all students, the Magis HS Program provides supplemental programs including mentorship, preparation for college entrance, and cultural enrichment. The Magis Program exists to support St. Ignatius students who identify with at least one of the following criteria:
- Students who are first-generation college-bound (neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree from a US college or university)
- Students from low-income families
- Students of color historically underrepresented in higher education
We hope to identify Magis-profile students as early as registration their 9th grade year. However, St. Ignatius students who meet at least one of the criteria above can join the program at any point during their time at SI.
To Join or For More Information about the Magis High School Program
Please email Ms. Maricel Hernandez, Director of Community Engagement and Belonging, at mhernandez@siprep.org to enroll in the Magis Program or for more information.
Social-Cultural Support
The Office of Belonging, Equity, and Excellence provides opportunities for participants to find success during their time at St. Ignatius and ultimately in their higher education pursuits.
The Office of Belonging, Equity, and Excellence is a safe space for all, irrespective of difference. We provide students with a variety of resources and experiences that support their social-cultural and identity development, including but not limited to: Magis First-Year Retreat, Film Days, Meet and Greets, Community Building Activities, Workshops, Conferences and Presentations.
Preparation for College Entrance
The Magis College Advising Program provides support to participants in their preparation for college entrance. In addition to their assigned SI college counselor, students in the Magis Program are able to work closely with our Magis College Advisor, Mrs. Anna Maria Vaccaro, beginning as early as 9th grade.
The overall objective for all grade levels is for them to know a college education is achievable, affordable, and attainable.
- Magis-profile students are presented with weekly workshops that focus on college and career exploration, enrichment programs and scholarship opportunities such as the Magis Summer College Bootcamp that provide a roadmap to understanding the financial aid and college application process.
- Students also have the opportunity to visit local colleges and universities. In addition, during their Sophomore or Junior year, they are invited to participate in a four-day Southern California college tour.
- Six-week SAT Prep courses are offered to students in their junior year. Limited spots are available.
Please note: With the Distance Learning Model and the impact of Covid-19 on travel and group gatherings, our college tours, workshops, and SAT prep will be offered virtually until further notice.
Academic Support
Students are able to use the BEE office to study, complete assignments and projects, and seek academic support.
Students who fall under a certain GPA are contacted by the Magis Academic Support Coordinators to create and sustain an improvement plan. These students are encouraged to take advantage of the resources that are available daily in the office. The office is open from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Thursday and 9:20 am - 3:30 pm on Friday and is staffed by one of the BEE staff.
Our distance learning schedule is TBD. Please check back for updates as we begin the new school year.