LYTE’s mission is based on the premise that academic success is the most important pathway to lifelong success for our citizens and our communities. Many underserved students in Delaware do not have the opportunities or resources to find academic success. Since 2014, LYTE has been changing the academic trajectory of hundreds of inner city middle school students by helping them get into Delaware’s most academically focused high school programs. We then support and advocate for our students through high school, helping them through challenges, working through pitfalls, and celebrating their successes until they are prepared for and accepted into college. LYTE recruits a wide variety of low income, Black and Latin(x) students from 9 low income city middle schools in New Castle County, Delaware. 90% of our students are Black and 9% Latin(x). Middle school programming includes: -Summer and after school classes for academic advancement (math and language arts) -High school guidance, placement support, and choice application support -Placement test preparation -4 tiers to serve students with a variety of capabilities High school programming includes: -Setting Smart Goals as Freshmen -Course and academic schedule planning -Advocacy in 20 high schools including monthly in-school meetings -Skill building in listening and communications -Character building development exercises -Tutoring services -SAT preparation classes -College guidance for students and families -College financial training for families LYTE has 182 active LYTE Scholars with a 87% retention rate from the summer after 7th grade through high school and 100% of our graduated scholars are attending college. LYTE is a Delaware nonprofit. All LYTE services are free to students and families and LYTE funds the $400k annual budget through grants and gifts.