Next Generation Scholars Programs

Next Generation Scholars Programs offers academic classes, academic counseling, college and career exploration, leadership development training, and mentorship during the school year and summer. The program includes a Summer Academy program, a summer academic program, a summer SAT prep course, and the Little Scholars Program. Students also have access to on-site therapy, counseling, a Community Uplift program, and a college representative visiting program that hosts over 20 schools.

• Ages: 6–18 years old
• Schedule: Students attend two weekly classes during the school year, one on Sunday and one during the week; summer sessions run as an intensive 5-week experience

Next Generation Scholars Programs is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that equips and empowers first generation, under-resourced Marin County middle and high school students to succeed in college and beyond through socially-conscious leadership development. Its Year-Round Academy for grades 6–12 centers on academic counseling, Community Uplift leadership development, and college and career exploration, and the Summer Program for grades 1–5 includes the Little Scholars Program and the Summer Academy Program for grades 6–12. The Community Uplift Project Program for grades 8–12 focuses on community impact and project management skills, and the College & Career Counseling Program offers counseling, mentorship, and comprehensive career guidance through college and into first careers. The Family Services Program supports families in education, employment, food services, healthcare, and housing, and the organization also became a food bank site and added a monthly parent program.

Next Generation Scholars Programs was founded in 2003 by Sally Matsuishi and Kenji Treanor together with The Branson School’s Director of Admissions and has served first generation scholars in Marin County for over two decades. The organization hired Jeff Escabar as Executive Director, bringing 43 years of education and independent school experience, and later hired program alum Nghiem Bui as Executive Director, bringing over 10 years of experience in public and independent school education and prior service as Director of College and Career Counseling. Next Generation Scholars Programs partners with 42 schools and organizations, is an official partner of San Rafael City Schools, and has expanded its summer programming through partnerships with The Branson School and Marin Academy, including 25 percent growth in the Summer Academy program. One alum described being surrounded by other driven, first-generation students, receiving support with food and school supplies, and experiencing emotional support and celebration through the program.

Last updated February 28, 2026.