Bishop Connolly’s L.E.A.P. Program—Learning Environment Accelerates Potential—allows seventh grade students ready for high school academics to apply for early admission to Connolly. Accepted students join the BCHS academic community in eighth grade and pursue a freshman honors curriculum alongside classmates starting ninth grade. Traditionally, L.E.A.P. students follow a five-year program of studies. After completing the typical four-year high school curriculum in their junior year, L.E.A.P. students can tailor fifth-year coursework to align with their academic interests and college goals. L.E.A.P. seniors can opt to take additional AP classes, design an independent study on a subject of their choice, or pursue internship opportunities, strengthening their high school resume to gain a competitive edge when applying to college.

Throughout their academic journey here, L.E.A.P. students engage in learning activities that demand independence, determination and problem-solving skills in a variety of areas, including language arts, math, creative arts, sports and leadership. The coursework enriches their understanding of subjects as they collaborate with peers on challenging assignments and projects. Also, as official members of the Bishop Connolly community, L.E.A.P. students are eligible to take part in all of our athletic and extracurricular programs.

If you have any questions about the testing or enrollment process for the L.E.A.P. Program, please contact Admissions Director Jo-Ann Bettencourt at 508.676.1071 x 333.