Tenley Achievement Program


George Mason Basketball Head Coach Jim Larranaga signing autographs for TAP students during his Summer 2006 visit to TAP.

The mission of the Tenley Achievement Program (TAP) is to foster the personal and academic development of disadvantaged minority boys. Our goal is for all TAP graduates to be true leaders who are academically proficient, self-disciplined, diligent, and morally principled. We strive to achieve this goal through a combination of classroom instruction, individual tutoring, competitive athletic competition, and personal mentoring.

Working in unison with their parents, TAP is firmly committed to help our students grow in virtue. All TAP programs thus place a strong emphasis on character building: the cultivation of moral virtues as the foundation for achieving any noble human endeavor. Character training takes place in all aspects of our programs, be they academic or athletic.

At TAP we recognize the fundamental role education plays in a successful life. With this in mind, our professional and demanding academic programs impart solid study habits and bolster student proficiency in key subjects (Math, English, and Science). By means of this effective academic support, we hope to maximize our students’ options when they apply to high schools and colleges.

All TAP programs are offered to qualified young men regardless of race, color, or creed. TAP has Christian roots, with a particular affiliation to Opus Dei, an institution of the Catholic Church that has initiated social service programs around the world.

The Staff
TAP staff is made up primarily of volunteers. Teachers, young professionals and high school volunteers combine to help the students review and improve ability in the different subject matters. The young professionals offer students a great example of service and also participate in some of the talks.

The TAP Difference
TAP attempts to help boys in the DC area improve their academic standing while also instilling an understanding of responsibility for their fellow classmates and families. Students are receiving extra help that is not available to all families. It is important for TAP students to understand that knowledge is not something to be kept to themselves, but rather it should be shared with others who haven't been given similar opportunities.