Cardinals Interact Program Overview
History
The Cardinals Interact program gets its name from the Hoover High School mascot, the cardinal, and Rotary International’s high school community service program, Interact. The program was established in 2002, with the first class graduating in 2005.
Program Qualifications
- Must be a 9th grader at Hoover High School
- Have a 1.0-4.0 GPA
- A desire to make personal improvements
- Be available to attend schedules activities
Program Expectations
- Maintain excellent attendance and citizenship at school and in the program
- Be committed to improve and/or maintain a high academic standing
- Be motivated and open-minded
- Be an active participant in program activities
- Maintain a drug-free and violence-free environment
Academic Support
- Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays after school until 6:30pm
- Wednesdays after school until 5:30pm
Interact Program: 1st Year
In their first year, students are required to attend a camp, and academic tutoring once a week. Camp provides students with the chance to get to know each other and to gain an understanding of how the program can support them in high school.
First Year Sample Program Activities
- New Class Meeting
- First Year Camp
- Rotary Luncheon
- Career Exploration – Illumina
- 4-Way Speech Experience
- City Heights Canyon Clean-Up
- San Diego State University
Interact Program: 2nd + 3rd Year
During the second and third years, Interact participants continue to attend camp once a year. Students engage in activities such as community service, workshops and Rotary opportunities. Cardinals programs are scheduled a minimum of once a month.
Second Year Sample Program Activities
- Second Year Camp
- Balboa Park
- Visit to the University of Southern California
- Rotary Experiences
- Leadership Camps
- 4-Way Test Speech Contest
- Youth Exchange
Third Year Sample Program Activities
- Third Year Camp
- College Support
- Cultural Arts Program
- Financial Literacy Program
- Resume and Interview Preparation
- County of San Diego
In addition, we provide comprehensive guidance through the college application process, financial aid, scholarship support, and more!
Application Process
All Hoover students in 9th grade are invited to apply to Cardinals Interact. The application process includes an interview, after which selected students are extended an invitation to join the program.
The selected students are admitted as a cohort and move through the three-year program together until graduation.
Supporting Students’ Goals
The Cardinals Interact Program conducts quarterly one-on-one check-ins with students. During these individual meetings, staff review each participant’s academic performance, program and school attendance and overall progress. Students are able to identify and share their strengths, concerns and needs to reach their personal goals and succeed in high school.