At Operation Xcel, we don’t view ourselves as a "drop-off" program. We are a Tribe. The "Aura" of a successful student—that unmistakable sense of self-confidence and purpose—is not built in isolation. It is cultivated through a seamless partnership between the school, the home, and our program. To maintain this environment of excellence, we ask our parents to commit to the 80% Engagement Standard.

What is the 80% Standard?
To remain a part of the Operation Xcel tribe, parents must attend 80% of all scheduled parent enrichment and school-related activities. We believe that being "fully present" goes beyond our walls. This includes:

• Operation Xcel Monthly Workshops: Deep dives into the 5 Protective Factors in collaboration with ADS (Alcohol & Drug Services).
• Parent SEL Workshops: Specialized sessions led by our Family Engagement Specialist to improve Emotional Intelligence (EQ).
• School-Based Engagement: PTA meetings, STEM nights, and curriculum nights hosted by your child’s school.

A Professional Ecosystem for Your Family
We provide the highest level of professional expertise to ensure that the parents’ 80% commitment yields 100% results for their child.

For Students: Our self-confidence building is supported by a team of experts. At our middle school sites, Certified School Counselors lead SEL sessions, supported daily by our dedicated Teachers and Teacher Assistants. This team ensures that as students navigate early adolescence, they are surrounded by professionals trained in emotional intelligence and developmental success.

 For Parents: Our Family Engagement Specialist facilitates Parent SEL Workshops specifically designed to help caregivers improve their own EQ. During this 2025–2026 school year, the impact has been undeniable. Parents who have attended at least one workshop have shared overwhelming positive feedback, noting a significant improvement in their communication and parenting at home.

See the Impact in Action:  From Failing Grades to Future Creator: Cameron’s Two-Year Journey
Since the summer of 2023, Cameron has been a familiar face at Operation Xcel. When he first joined us as an 8th grader at Southwest Middle School, the stakes were high. His grades were not passing, and his mother was deeply concerned—not just about the numbers on his report card, but because Cameron was too shy to speak up or ask for help when he didn't understand the material.

By the 2025-2026 school year, Cameron’s progress is striking. Now 15, he enjoys gaming, sports with friends, and chatting on the phone. Once facing academic challenges, Cameron has turned Math into his favorite subject. He’s shifted from failing grades to managing homework independently and showing clear growth in his behavior both at home and at school.

"Operation Xcel allows working parents to concentrate on their jobs instead of worrying about what their child is doing. It offers fun activities and genuinely boosts social skills."

Going the Distance
When support is synchronized at home, at school, and throughout the summer, a child’s self-confidence doesn't just grow—it stays. The 80% standard is our commitment to going the distance together.