Philadelphia, PA — Esperanza Academy Charter School (EACS) has launched a powerful new partnership with City Year Philadelphia for the 2025–2026 school year, aimed at boosting academic achievement and strengthening school culture. This collaboration brings eight City Year Student Success Coaches (SSCs) into Esperanza’s high school classrooms, where they will work side-by-side with teachers and students to foster a thriving learning environment.

Led by Dawn McCray, Managing Director of Impact, and Deanna Johnson, Senior Director of Learning and Instruction, City Year Philadelphia began training 112 SSCs earlier this month. The Esperanza team officially joined the school community on the first day of classes.

As Esperanza Academy celebrates its 25th anniversary, the school is doubling down on two key priorities: academic growth in Math and English Language Arts (ELA), and a renewed focus on culture and climate that nurtures the whole child. The integration of SSCs into daily school life is designed to provide targeted academic support, strengthen teacher-student relationships, and promote a positive, inclusive school culture.

“At Esperanza Academy, we believe every student deserves the support and encouragement to reach their fullest potential,” said Dr. Evelyn Nuñez, CEO and Superintendent of Esperanza Academy. “Our partnership with City Year brings dedicated mentors into our classrooms and hallways—role models who will walk alongside our students, celebrate their strengths, and help them overcome challenges. Together, we are building a culture of hope, resilience, and academic excellence that empowers our scholars to thrive in school and in life.”

The SSCs will collaborate with teachers to deliver data-informed classroom support, small-group tutoring, and one-on-one interventions. Beyond academics, they will help energize the school day with power greetings, afterschool enrichment, and schoolwide events that build community and student engagement.

Founded in 1988, City Year is a national service organization that deploys young adults for a year of full-time service in schools across the country. What began with 50 corps members has grown to more than 2,000 serving in 29 U.S. cities, including Philadelphia. City Year’s mission aligns closely with Esperanza’s: a belief that all students can succeed and that nurturing their skills and mindsets contributes to stronger, more vibrant communities.

“City Year is proud to partner with Esperanza Academy for the 2025–2026 school year,” said Darryl Bundrige, Senior Vice President and Executive Director of City Year Philadelphia. “We are grateful to Dr. Evelyn Nuñez for her steadfast support—through her leadership in the School District, her service on the City Year Philadelphia Board, and now in her role at Esperanza Academy. Together, we look forward to strong collaboration and meaningful impact for Esperanza’s students and community.”