Executive Summary

As a result of generations of historic underinvestment in the school systems and community we serve, Newark students lack access to the resources they need to get into and through college. NJ LEEP provides the resources, support and exposure for any Newark student who aspires to college completion by buidling academic and social emotional skills, providing career exposure and building professional skills. . NJ LEEP’s College Bound Program (CBP) works with students, starting in 6th grade, to ensure they know what is possible and have the ability to self-actualize their goals.

Each grade has a different focus. Middle school students focus on project based learning, teamwork, math, STEM and ELA skill building. 9th graders participate in our debate program to build and practice research, writing, public speaking and self advocacy. 10th graders continue in debate and partcipate in a life skills curriculum. 11th graders take part in intensive test prep, math and ELA skill building and furthering their social emotional skills. 12th graders get intensive support on all aspects of the college application/financial aid and decision process.

Among NJ LEEP graduates, 100% graduate high school, 99% enroll in college and 74% of those who enroll in college have obtained a four-year degree. Comparatively, 49% of Newark high school seniors enroll in college and only 23% of those enrolled graduate. The College Bound Program and our College Student Success program will have nearly 400 students in 2025. Working in partnership with Newark Public Schools, NJ LEEP will launch school based college access programming in January 2025 with the goal of working with 1,000 students by 2028.

NJ LEEP's College Student Success Program works with our students to ensure a successful transition to college and helps them build a path through college and into a career launch. Students have regular check ins, virtual and in person events to build professional skills and access to the NJ LEEP network.

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