Our Program
EDUCATION
Every child is entitled to a first-rate education. Our Scholars attend Wilton High School— a nationally top ranked public high school — and live in the ABC House, where they participate in daily proctored study hall with a tutor; receive private, individualized college prep and application support; and engage in a variety of enrichment programs.
OPPORTUNITY
A Better Chance of Wilton provides opportunities not available to our Scholars in their home communities due to systemic and ongoing discrimination, institutional barriers, and the inequitable funding of public schools. We are committed to providing our Scholars with leadership development and opportunities in and out of the classroom during their four years in our program and preparing them for a lifetime of achievement.
ABC of Wilton: A Community School Program
A Better Chance of Wilton is an affiliate of A Better Chance National (ABC), the preeminent resource for recruiting, educating, and developing leaders from underrepresented young people of color throughout the United States. ABC is the oldest and only national organization of its kind. It selects, prepares, and places gifted students of color in the country’s most prestigious independent, boarding, and public schools. Click here to learn more about ABC National.
ABC of Wilton is one of just 18 community school programs (CSP) within the ABC umbrella, selected for the town’s thriving schools, community culture, and enriching resources. Founded in 1996, ABC of Wilton has been coined, “boarding school; family style,” offering the best of both a boarding and day school experience living in a close-knit family environment. Our Resident Director is a former ABC of Wilton Scholar and brings awareness, first hand experience and valuable life lesson tools as she mentors and guides Scholars on their path to success.
Our Program
ABC of Wilton offers its Scholars an exceptional college preparatory education and life-changing experiences while covering all academic and living expenses. We provide a nurturing environment with an extensive support system and endless opportunities for personal growth. ABC of Wilton prides itself on being a family made up of Scholars, caring staff members, a dedicated board, welcoming host families, and passionate volunteers. From the day our scholars arrive until they graduate, they are supported in all aspects of their journeys to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Program Highlights
Academic Success and College Advising
Social and Emotional Support Wellness
ABC of Wilton: A No Fee Program
There are no fees to participate in our program – we cover the costs of virtually everything for our scholars for all four years, including:
- Housing and meals at the ABC House
- School lunch
- Weekly allowances for scholars ($30 per week)
- After-school activities both in and outside of New Canaan High School
- Weekend activities
- Summer enrichment programs
- Tutors and social and emotional support services
- Standardized test prep courses
- Private college advising
- College tours and applications
- Transportation to and from home for school breaks and long weekends
ABC of Wilton Residence
ABC of Wilton Residence is a nurturing and supportive place for our scholars to live while on the path of learning, growth and building relationships. Welcoming and comfortable, the residence is truly a family home for our Scholars, resident director, tutor, and in-house cook. It is conveniently situated in Wilton town center steps from the Wilton Public Library.
A space to thrive; the ABC of Wilton house offers:
- An inviting communal space downstairs
- A comfortable living room with a TV and a piano
- Designated study areas and a desk for each scholar equipped with printer and scanner and a school provided laptop
- A bright and spacious dining area and fully stocked kitchen. Best of all, our excellent cook, Sarah, prepares dinner for our scholars and resident staff, who eat together every night!
- Bedrooms for each scholar to have their own space to relax and recharge
- Shed with bikes for each scholar
