The Smet Foundation partners with the Department of Catholic Schools in Los Angeles in a variety of programs that benefit students, teachers, principals, and staff in the Los Angeles area.

Learn more about each program below.

The Onward Family

  • Onward Scholars


    THE ONWARD SCHOLARS PROGRAM (OSP) is a competitive scholarship and enrichment program for selected high school students with strong academic backgrounds. OSP provides a unique four-year pathway to success for exceptional high school students who demonstrate academic excellence, impactful leadership, and motivation to dream big in their college search. The three main components of the Onward Scholars Program are scholarship, mentorship, and college access. Learn More.

  • Onward Leaders


    THE ONWARD LEADERS PROGRAM (OLP) is committed to the support and development of exemplary Catholic school leaders. OLP provides a unique one-year program for select resident principals from both within and outside of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to develop knowledge and skills of the Archdiocesan leadership competencies in Catholic Identity, Academic Excellence, and Operational Vitality. Through professional development programs and collaborative cohorts, Onward Leaders ensure vibrant Catholic schools for present and future generations. Learn More.

  • Onward 4 Educators


    ONWARD 4 EDUCATORS honors educators in ADLA Catholic schools by providing professional development grants for teachers and principals and scholarships for the children of the school staff in selected deaneries who attend ADLA Catholic schools. Learn More.

  • Onward 4 Excellence


    ONWARD 4 EXCELLENCE (O4E) supports student learning by fostering the learning of leaders and teachers. O4E supports collaborative, professional growth in curriculum and instruction, instructional leadership, and data assessment. It was developed by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and is supported by the John H. and Cynthia Lee Smet Foundation. Learn More.

  • Onward Readers


    ONWARD READERS is an intensive, research-based literacy initiative designed to support students, parents, teachers, and principals to ensure that all students are reading on or above grade level. This three-year program supports school communities in ensuring that students are on track for college and career readiness and provides ongoing professional development workshops as well as frequent on-site support. Learn More.

  • Onward 2 High School


    ONWARD 2 HIGH SCHOOL (O2HS) is the premier middle school to high school bridge program. The O2HS Summer Institute is designed to bridge the gap between middle and high school for rising 7th and 8th graders in an exciting, vigorous academic environment. From hands-on learning and academic skills to engaging courses and immersive field trips, our offerings are extensive, and all connected by our mission to assist students in building a strong foundation for success in middle school and future high school years. Learn More.