With barely a week left of their time at Burbank Elementary School, a group of fifth-graders gathered in the school’s green-and-blue painted library for what may be the last time.

These students—a part of the Gifted and Talented program on campus—were not there for a graduation or year-end celebration, but rather a mentorship program with KPMG that helped them set goals for the summer as they transition into middle school.

“I want to read more over the summer,” one student said during his session. “That way I can get to sixth grade ready to go.”

HISD is now accepting applications for its 2021 Summer Student Leadership Program, a six-week paid summer internship and leadership development program for HISD high school students and alumni currently enrolled in college. 

In line with HISD’s mission to provide students with the tools to reach their full potential, the program addresses the need to expose students to fulfilling careers and skills employers demand in a rapidly changing world. Participants will gain valuable employment experience and can test-drive career pathways before choosing a college major or entering the workforce.