Early Steps helps children of color and their families access high-quality independent schools through personalized admissions and financial aid support.
Our member schools are 100% committed to the enrollment of kindergarten and 1st grade children of color from ALL economic backgrounds.
"I will do all I can to ensure Early Steps continues to flourish so that others like me can continue to realize their greatest potential.” - Ijah Mondesire-Crump MD, St. Bernards School '98, Riverdale Country School '02, Harvard University '06, Mount Sinai School of Medicine '11. "
Our member schools are 100% committed to the enrollment of kindergarten and 1st grade children of color from ALL economic backgrounds.
We guide families to ease the process and help increase enrollment success.
A voice for diversity in NYC independent schools
Create a more diverse environment balancing your independent school’s needs with those of the child.
Stay connected with our mission of helping kids while impacting racial diversity.
Through partnerships with families and schools, Early Steps creates lasting pathways to educational opportunity and inclusion across New York City.
of families complete the admissions process with Early Steps support
partnerships in NYC
years of impact supporting families and students
Real stories from families, students, and schools whose journeys were shaped by Early Steps’ guidance and support.
“Early steps guided us through every step of the independent school admissions process. From understanding applications to navigating financial aid, we never felt alone.”
“Because of Early Steps, I was able to attend a school where I feel supported, challenged, and confident in my learning every day.”
“Early Steps strengthens our school community by helping families access opportunity and by supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion in meaningful ways.”
