Approach + Mission

Where Potential Meets Opportunity

We prepare students to graduate college, launch meaningful careers, and contribute to their communities—through a model built on rigor, relationships, and long-term support.

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Our Impact
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Our impact

Making Waves commits to rigorously and holistically preparing students to gain acceptance to and graduate from college to ultimately become valuable contributors to the workforce and their communities

Our approach

We don’t believe in one moment of success—we believe in building it over time. Our model supports students from middle school through college and into early career, ensuring they are prepared for what’s next at every step.

Long-Term Support That Lasts

We walk alongside students for more than 15 years—from 5th grade through college and early career—so they don't just get to college, they graduate and move forward with confidence.

  • 95% enroll in college.
  • 63% earn a bachelor's degree.

Rigorous + Supportive Learning

Students experience a college-preparatory curriculum alongside personalized academic and social-emotional support.

  • 100% complete A-G requirements
  • Ongoing college coaching and financial aid guidance
  • A structured, supportive environment where students are known and challenged

A Clear Vision for Success

Our Portrait of a Graduate defines what students gain from their experience.

Students graduate:

  • Self-aware and purpose-driven
  • Skilled in communication, collaboration, and critical thinking
  • Financially literate
  • Ready for the workplace
  • Committed to giving back

Open Access, High Expectations

We admit students through a non-selective, public lottery and provide the support needed to meet high expectations.

We prove what’s possible when access meets excellence.

  • 99% students of color
  • 85% low-income
  • 79% first-generation college students

Always Learning, Always Improving

We continuously use data and feedback to refine our model—ensuring our students are prepared for a rapidly changing world.

What Students Gain

Everything we do is designed to help students build the skills and mindset to thrive in college, in careers, and in life.

Why it works

Making Waves is a connected system of support. By combining rigorous academics, long-term guidance, real-world skill building, and a deep belief in our students, we create outcomes that far exceed national averages. Students don’t just succeed in school, they build the foundation for a stable, meaningful future.