Our Impact

Results that matter.

The numbers are real. The students are excelling. Since 2013, our experiential learning model has helped more than 2,000 Saint Paul youth realize their full potential. With your help, we create boundless opportunities for the next generation of changemakers.

How we measure impact

Using various evaluation methods from students, parents, tutors, and Saint Paul public schools, we’re able to collect real-time data. Things like progress reports (including report cards and transcripts), surveys, interviews—as well as independent research reports—all help fuel our understanding of what works and what needs closer attention.

30,000 Feet’s services generate an estimated $3.10 in benefits for each dollar invested. You can learn more about our quantitative analysis overview here.

Impact Areas

We help youth develop in and beyond the classroom.

64%

Average increase in GPA

Academic Performance

Our programs consistently increase student achievement in English literacy, math, science, social studies, and arts.

52%

Average decrease in school suspensions

Behavior

Parents and family members frequently report improvements in child’s social interactions, behavior, and cultural awareness.

50%

Average number of Tech Geeks jobs going to teens with a criminal record

Job Placement

Our Tech Geeks program aims to decrease recidivism rates and broaden African American presence in computer science fields.

74%

Average increase in improved school attendance

Student Confidence

Personal social development includes an eagerness toward learning, accepting responsibility, and meeting deadlines.

Student perspectives

Divyne, 16

Being a part of this program has been a game changer for me. It helped me spend time doing something that will make me better and it helped me focus on something worthwhile.

Gabe, 13

When I first started at the program as a 10-year-old, my grades and being smart did not matter. However, the coaches and tutors helped me get and stay on the honor roll by helping me with my homework and creating a comfortable space to study. My cousins and I come to 30,000 Feet to compete to see whose grades will be the best! Of course, I always win.

Mia, 8

I didn’t have a lot of friends at school because the kids were mean to me. When I came to 30,000 Feet, I made friends that like a lot of the same things that I like. We care about each other, so they help me work hard and be smart together. We read and write together and every time we have an art project, we are in the same group! We teach the little kids what we learned from our books by showing them our art projects. It’s so much fun!

Impact Plan

Schools

Students

SHORT-TERM (<1 year)

Increased awareness of and comfort with culturally responsive pedagogy and curriculum for African American students
Increased appreciation and understanding of how to integrate arts into learning and the positive impact this can have for students
Increased awareness of social justice issues and how social power dynamics affect African American students

SHORT-TERM (<1 year)

Access to culturally relevant curriculum and teaching, knowledge of African American history and art, and awareness of contemporary social justice issues
Exposure to arts and opportunities for self-expression through art
Social and leadership skills
Improved attendance and behavior
Increased academic interest, motivation, engagement, confidence, and achievement
Increased interest in college and computer science fields

MEDIUM-TERM (1-2 years)

Improved ability to provide a culturally relevant school experience for African American students, including pedagogy, testing, and student/family/community engagement
Increased integration of arts into curriculum and core subjects
Increased involvement in social justice issues

MEDIUM-TERM (1-2 years)