This year, Simon Youth Foundation is celebrating an incredible milestone: more than 30,000 students have earned their high school diplomas through Simon Youth Academies. This number represents more than an achievement — it reflects 30,000 young people who defied the odds, found hope in adversity, and unlocked the future they deserve.

As we celebrate this success, we must also acknowledge the urgent challenges ahead. Too many students continue to be overlooked by traditional education systems and left without the support they need to thrive. These are the students we serve, and this is why we exist.

Simon Youth Foundation was founded on the belief that one-size-fits-all education doesn’t work. We believe in education systems that evolve, adapt, and meet students where they are — supporting their realities, dreams, and needs. While others may turn their backs on these students, we show up, every day, in every community we serve.

This year’s report highlights the real impact of that commitment — made possible by our educators, partners, and supporters:

• We awarded 174 scholarships totaling over $733,250, bringing our lifetime scholarship funding to more than $21.8 million.
• We honored four exceptional educators for their transformative leadership and impact in the classroom and beyond.
• Students explored beyond the classroom through experiential learning trips like the Civil Rights Journey and the Close-Up Trip in Washington, D.C.
• We expanded our reach through the continued support of national sponsors and dedicated donor partners who make our mission possible.

These numbers matter. But what matters even more are the people behind them: the students, their stories, and their futures. Students like Esme LeDay, who aged out of foster care, faced homelessness, and still earned her diploma at a Simon Youth Academy. Today, Esme is a college student, works full-time, and advocates for foster youth. She is living proof of what’s possible when we believe in young people.

While we are proud of these achievements, our work is far from over. Looking ahead, we are called to do more. We must expand our network of academies, deepen our investment in holistic learning, and continue to champion the educators who make this work possible. Our goal is not just to help students graduate, but to build a future that works better for everyone.