HAWK PROGRAMAt the Prep, we believe that to whom much is given, much is expected. The Hawk Program is an invitation to those who scored in the 90th percentile or above.
This is not just a summer class; it is a strategic opportunity to accelerate your curriculum in English, Mathematics, and Spanish. Through dynamic, 80-minute daily sessions, you will:
Advance Your Path: Position yourself to move into higher-level coursework earlier in your Prep career.
Sharpen Your Tools: Ensure you possess the critical thinking and foundational skills necessary to not just survive, but thrive in our rigorous academic environment.
Join a Cohort of Scholars: Connect early with like-minded peers who share your intellectual curiosity and drive.
Next Steps: Eligible students will receive a formal invitation with specific details via email in March.
When: June 22, 2026 to July 24, 2026 from 9am-2pm
For questions regarding the Hawk Program, please contact Mr. Daniel Ranalli ’00, Assistant Principal of Academics and Faculty Development, at
dranalli@sjprep.org.
CRIMSON & GRAY PROGRAMEvery great journey begins with a solid foundation. The Crimson & Gray Program is a comprehensive academic immersion designed to equip incoming freshmen with the competence and confidence needed to navigate the Prep’s rigorous curriculum.
Through targeted, 40-minute sessions, students will engage with the core disciplines that define our academic life: English, Latin, Mathematics, Science, and Modern Language. Rather than just reviewing material, this program focuses on the skills and habits of mind necessary for high-level success at the Prep.
Beyond the classroom, this program prioritizes community. Built-in time for connection allows students to acclimate to their new home, forging relationships with the faculty, administrators, and peers who will accompany them on their four-year formation.
Eligibility: This program serves as the primary academic onboarding experience for the Class of 2030 (excluding those specifically invited to the Hawk or Prep Advantage cohorts).
When: June 22, 2026 to July 24, 2026 from 9am-2pm Monday-Friday. Crimson and Grey students may select two to five weeks to be a part of the program. However, all students must begin the program from week 1 due to the scaffolded nature of the work.
PREP EXPERIENCE The journey to becoming a "Man for and with Others" begins before the first bell rings in September. The Prep Experience is a distinctive summer immersion program designed to welcome incoming students into the heart of the St. Joseph’s Prep community.
Over the course of this program, students will move beyond the classroom to engage with the city, the mission, and one another. This is an opportunity to fast-track the bonds of brotherhood and acclimate to the rhythm of life at 17th & Girard.
Program Highlights:
Service & Stewardship: Grounded in the Grad at Grad goal of Committed to Doing Justice, students will participate in a community service project. They will learn early on that the Prep mission calls them to look outward and serve our neighbors in Philadelphia.
The City as Our Classroom: From the historic streets to the cultural landmarks, students will Explore Philly, discovering how our unique urban location enhances their education.
Building the Brotherhood: Through high-energy team bonding and a challenging ropes course, students will learn to trust and rely on their peers.
Acclimation: Students will gain a comfort level with the campus, meeting key faculty and older student leaders, ensuring they walk in on the first day of school with confidence and a sense of belonging.
When: Dates for Prep Experience will be published in January.
PREP ADVANTAGE PROGRAMCompetence. Organization. Confidence. In the spirit of cura personalis—care for the whole person—the Prep Advantage Program is designed to ensure a seamless and successful transition to high school for a specific cohort of the Class of 2030.
This immersive program engages students in 40-minute sessions across our core curriculum: Latin, English, Math, and Science. By engaging with this material now, students reduce the anxiety of transition and build a solid academic foundation.
Beyond the content, the program prioritizes Executive Functioning. Through a specialized study skills course, students will learn how to organize their time, manage their workload, and study effectively.
Registration & Details: Families invited to this program (as noted in your acceptance letter) will receive additional details from Mr. Gregorio in March.
When: June 22, 2026 to July 24, 2026 from 9am-2pm Monday-Friday.
Questions? Please contact Mr. Kevin Gregorio, Director of Learning Services, at
kgregorio@sjprep.org VIRTUAL STUDY SKILLSLearn ways to improve time management skills, focus on good study habits, how to self-advocate with teachers/moderators and more with the Class of 2030 Virtual Study Skills Workshop, taught by Prep Counselor Dr. Bill Gillespie! Dr. Gillespie will post a virtual session for Class of 2030 students that will be a combination of lecture, Q&A, asks/assignments, etc. These sessions are pre-recorded and posted each Tuesday and Thursday in July. Students can access them at any time once posted. For questions about the program, please contact Dr. Gillespie at
wgillespie@sjprep.org