As you know, all of UPLIFT’s programs — CPM, STEAM Academies, Summer Math Camps, tutoring, mentorship — are completely free for students from underserved communities. To meet the growing demand in Newark and Paterson where we currently serve, your Giving Tuesday contribution is vital. Today, on Giving Tuesday, every dollar helps us open doors for students who deserve every opportunity to thrive.
If you’ve ever stared at a linear equation or quadratic formula and asked, “When will I actually use this in real life?”—you’re not alone. It’s the most common question in any math classroom. Mastering algebra today is the first step toward securing a successful, high-paying career tomorrow.
Approximately 30 ambitious CPM students capped off their standard Saturday classes by embarking on an unforgettable visit to the historic campus of Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut. This powerful field trip marked a significant moment in UPLIFT Academy’s commitment to providing meaningful and motivating college exposure opportunities.
Without these programs, the students may not have been able to realize their potential and succeed. This is a volunteer position for me; however, I am well paid when I see them socializing and encouraging each other, when I receive an excited telephone call with the message, "Dr. Schaeffer, I did it. I got accepted" at a school of his/her choice.
UPLIFT Academy hosted a Parent Meet & Greet at New Birth Church in Paterson on Friday, November 14 at 7:00 PM, strengthening family engagement in our College Path Mentorship (CPM) program. Parents learned about the step-by-step path to college admission, the importance of early preparation, and the many free resources their children receive through CPM.
UPLIFT Academy is proud to announce that the College Path Mentorship (CPM) 2025–26 program year has officially begun! This year, we are serving students across four community partner locations, expanding our reach and strengthening our mission to support high school students on their journey to college success.
We are delighted to announce a new partnership with New Birth Church (Iglesia Nuevo Nacimiento) in Paterson, NJ — a vibrant, Spanish-speaking community deeply rooted in faith and family. Located at 316 Totowa Avenue, New Birth serves as a vital spiritual and social hub for Latino families in Paterson.
The close of the summer and the beginning of the fall semester were filled with excitement at UPLIFT Academy as we held multiple Certificate Ceremonies to honor the dedication and hard work of our students. These events recognized the successful completion of the College Path Mentorship (CPM) and Summer Math Camp programs.
Before the first bell of the new school year rang, UPLIFT Academy was on the ground ensuring students were ready for success. This summer, UPLIFT, in powerful partnership with Embrace Relief, hosted its annual Back-to-School Backpack Distribution drive.
This summer, UPLIFT Academy continued its commitment to expanding access to STEM education by launching its free Robotics program in Newark for middle school students from underserved communities in partnership with the New Spring Foundation and Masjid Ashab ul Yameen.
