Bishop Connolly’s LEAP 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, LEAP students follow a five-year program of studies. After completing the typical four-year high school curriculum in their junior year, LEAP students can tailor fifth-year coursework to align with their academic interests and college goals. LEAP 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, LEAP 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, LEAP 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 LEAP Program, please contact Admissions Director Jo-Ann Bettencourt at 508.676.1071 x 333.