4th grade is a vital year for the new De Marillac students and institutionally, as we transition 18 new students to the norms, aspirations, and expectations of our school. 4th grade marks the beginning of our students’ 15-year journey at De Marillac Academy, and investment in the fourth-grade class is the foundation for success during their time at DMA and beyond. The strong onboarding of our 4th-grade class helps to address a “fourth-grade slump” that is often seen amongst low-income students (“Poor Children’s Fourth-Grade Slump” by Jeanne Chall and Vicki Jacobs). This “slump” is identified through a drop in reading test scores amongst low-income students, as student development moves from focusing on the principles of alphabet and reading comprehension to using “reading to learn” and present skills to build comprehension and learn complex principles. De Marillac’s model allows us to provide an intervention during this crucial milestone in the student’s life and provide the necessary support for each individual. When students enroll in the 4th grade, we make a 15-year promise to the students and families to assist with their personal, academic, financial, and social-emotional needs through wrap-around services.