Frequently Asked Questions about the STEPS program
Please see below for answers to the most frequently asked questions about the STEPS program.
What is the STEPS program?
What are the 4 components/pillars of STEPS?
Who can participate in STEPS?
How do you register for STEPS?
Who can enroll a Little into the STEPS program?
What is STEPS orientation?
When is orientation held?
What if a match closes, or the Little is not currently matched?
What is the STEPS program?
STEPS is a college preparatory/ workforce readiness program designed for Littles, in the 7th grade or higher, to explore post secondary education, career opportunities, and learn about the many resources available in the BBBS service community. Once enrolled in the program, Littles, parents and Bigs will be provided with tools to stay on track for high school graduation, prepare for college, enhance their character, give back to their community, and explore careers. Littles will receive individual assessments as they work towards high school graduation and college preparation, as well as direction and encouragement from BBBS staff to achieve program benchmarks. This program is currently offered to Littles who live in the Collin, Dallas, Denton or Tarrant County area.
What are the 4 components/pillars of STEPS?
The four components of STEPS are: Education, Community Service, Character Enrichment, Career Awareness. With education the center and foundation of the program, this component will involve help with information on test dates/deadlines, scholarship opportunities, and the college admission process. The emphasis on character will enrich virtues such as integrity, courage, fortitude, honesty, and loyalty in Littles, in addition to discovering those unique qualities that distinguish individuals, while the emphasis on community service will encourage students to actively participate in the community, learning to give back to society. Finally, a variety of resources will be used in order to introduce Littles to a broad range of career options. Through early exploration, Littles will gain hands-on experience as they consider career possibilities for the future and the paths that will guide them towards these careers.
Who can participate in STEPS?
7th – 12th grade matched Littles in the Dallas, Collin, Denton, Tarrant county area.
How do you register for STEPS?
You can register online for STEPS at www.bbbs.org/steps.
Who can enroll/register a Little into the STEPS program?
The parent/guardian or Big can register the Little for participation in the STEPS program. However, prior to registration, please speak with all parties to ensure full support and participation.
What is STEPS orientation?
STEPS orientation provides an opportunity to become acquainted with the program. At the orientation, you will be introduced to the STEPS director and other key players of the STEPS team. These key people will provide you with a more in-depth look at STEPS, help familiarize you with your STEPS binder, and answer any questions you may have. You will also meet your college/career coach and have time to begin your individualized plan to prepare for your future.
At orientation, each Little must provide a copy of their report card from their last full semester and TAKS scores.
When is orientation held?
STEPS orientation will mimic the collegiate admissions calendar and offer an orientation session 3 times a year: Fall, Spring, and Summer.
What if a match closes, or the Little is not currently matched?
Involvement in STEPS requires the Little to be matched. However, if a match closes while the Little is an active participant, the parent/guardian can continue the STEPS required in the program.
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