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Magis High School Program

The Magis High School Program is an academic, social, and cultural support program for students historically underrepresented at St. Ignatius and institutions of higher education. In addition to the academic and counseling resources that SI already offers all students, the Magis HS Program provides supplemental programs including mentorship, preparation for  college entrance, and cultural enrichment. The Magis Program exists to support St. Ignatius students who identify with at least one of the following criteria:

  • Students who are first-generation college-bound (neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree from a US college or university)
  • Students from low-income families
  • Students of color historically underrepresented in higher education

We hope to identify Magis-profile students as early as registration their 9th grade year. However, St. Ignatius students who meet at least one of the criteria above can join the program at any point during their time at SI. 

To Join or For More Information about the Magis High School Program

Please email Ms. Maricel Hernandez, Director of Community Engagement and Belonging, at mhernandez@siprep.org to enroll in the Magis Program or for more information.

Social-Cultural Support

Magis provides opportunities for participants to find success during their time at St. Ignatius and ultimately in their higher education pursuits.

The Magis Center is a safe space for all, irrespective of difference. We provide students with a variety of resources and experiences that support their social-cultural and identity development, including but not limited to: Magis First-Year Retreat, Film Days, Meet & Greets, Community Building Activities, Workshops, Conferences and Presentations.

Preparation for College Entrance

The Magis College Advising Program provides support to participants in their preparation for college entrance. In addition to their assigned SI college counselor, students in the Magis Program are able to work closely with our Magis College Advisor, Mrs. Anna Maria Vaccaro, beginning as early as 9th grade.

The overall objective for all grade levels is for them to know a college education is achievable, affordable, and attainable.

  • Magis-profile students are presented with weekly workshops that focus on college and career exploration, enrichment programs and scholarship opportunities such as the Magis Summer College Bootcamp that provide a roadmap to understanding the financial aid and college application process.
  • Students also have the opportunity to visit local colleges and universities. In addition, during their Sophomore or Junior year, they are invited to participate in a four-day Southern California college tour. 
  • Six-week SAT Prep courses are offered to students in their junior year. Limited spots are available.

Please note: With the Distance Learning Model and the impact of Covid-19 on travel and group gatherings, our college tours, workshops, and SAT prep will be offered virtually until further notice.

Academic Support

Students are able to use the Magis Center to study, complete assignments and projects, and seek academic support. 

Each year, an SI Alumni Volunteer (or two!) serves the Magis Center as an academic tutor, mentor, and advocate who works with our students one-on-one. Students who fall under a certain GPA are contacted by the Magis Academic Support Coordinators to create and sustain an improvement plan. Magis students are encouraged to take advantage of the resources that are available daily in the office. The office is open from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Thursday and 9:20 am - 3:30 pm on Friday and is staffed by one of the Magis Center Staff.
The Magis Center will be offering after school academic support for students seeking a place to do homework and tutoring from peer tutors, teachers, and Magis Center Staff.