Tackling Obstacles and Raising College Hopes
The mission of TORCH is to support and empower students in graduating from high school and pursuing future goals, with an intentional focus on partnering with Northfield’s students of color, youth from low income families, and first-generation college attendees.
As of August 2024, TORCH has graduated 810 students.
There is a 98% high school graduation rate for students in the TORCH cohort over the past 20 years.
TORCH Student Voices
Valeria ’25
“I’m graduating, and I’m really proud of myself”
Daniel ’23
“Having someone to lean on when school gets difficult is crucial to a growing mind, and TORCH does it with respect and kindness. They have helped me grow both academically and as a person, with seemingly endless people and resources to help guide me through school and more. Since the 6th grade, TORCH has been a home away from home.”
Jayden ’27
“I come here to get help from the staff because I feel safe, and I trust the people around me.”
Allison ’27
“I come to TORCH because it’s very helpful and a good place with good people who help me with my work.”
Excelencia in Education accelerates Latino student success in higher education by promoting Latino student achievement, conducting analysis to inform educational policies, and advancing institutional practices while collaborating with those committed and ready to meet the mission. Launched in 2004 in the nation’s capital, Excelencia is building a network of results-oriented educators and policymakers to address the U.S. economy’s need for a highly educated workforce and engaged civic leadership.