DELTA GEMS OVERVIEW  APPLICATION PROCESS  APPLICANT CRITERIA 

The Delta GEMS program is intended to not act as an extension of school, but as a fun, sisterhood program filled with tons of personal and professional growth opportunities and experiences that will last a lifetime.

Participation in the Delta GEMS program is a commitment due to the nature of its curriculum and the frequency in which we meet. We recognize that participants may be involved with other extracurricular activities that may conflict with the scheduled session dates and times. Therefore, we ask that you be sure to evaluate any extracurricular activities that may prohibit full participation in the program or conflict with our program calendar dates.

Accepted Gems are expected to attend at least 8 of the 12 scheduled, in-person sessions throughout the program year (September-April). Any community service activities related to the program are also mandatory for Gems to attend, e.g., MLK Day Parade. When the program calendar is created each year, we work to ensure that sessions do not conflict with any national holidays and standard school district breaks.

Punctuality is key for scheduled sessions and events and is a great character trait to have as they grow into adulthood. All Gems are expected to arrive at our designated locations at least 15 minutes prior to start time to optimize our sessions. For example, a 10 a.m. start time means a 9:45 a.m. arrival time – adequate for setup and our check-in process.

Cost

Generally, there is no cost to participating in the program. However, sisterhood outings, holiday events, some merchandise/materials related to activities of their choosing, teen summits, or the year-end ceremony may incur a small cost.

Absences & Tardies

• Gems arriving at 10 a.m. or later will incur a tardy for attendance; two consecutive tardies = one absence
• Excused absences are allowed, depending upon certain circumstances
• After three consecutive absences, a notice will be sent to the parent and/or guardian