“Our 8th-grade male students have been actively participating in a mentoring program that has proven to be a cornerstone of our school climate. The Uplift Education curriculum, facilitated by Dr. Olufemi Fadeyibi, has had a significant and measurable impact on student performance. Specifically, we have observed an increase in students’ focus and stamina during rigorous reading and writing assignments, which has translated into improved STAR assessment scores. Beyond the data, the program has fostered deep relational roots; students eagerly anticipate their Wednesday afternoon sessions, and many have expressed a strong desire for these mentors to support them through their transition to high school. We are incredibly proud of the growth seen in these young men and look forward to a continued, thriving partnership with Uplift Education.”

Timeka Ford-Smith

Principal, Tilden Middle School

“Since our male mentoring group’s inception, the transformation among our mentored students has been undeniable. Most significantly, we are seeing higher on-track rates and a measurable rise in GPAs, proving that consistent advocacy directly translates to academic endurance. Students report a deeper sense of school connectedness, which has manifested in increased engagement and a sharp decline in disciplinary referrals. This success is inseparable from the presence of Dr. Olufemi Fadeyibi.”

David Lon

Principal, Mastbaum High School

“By providing the necessary motivation and structure, this program is helping our Freshman Academy students find their stride. Our young men are demonstrating a renewed focus and are well on their way to evolving into the leaders of our school community.”

Dr. Khailiah Edwards

Principal, Benjamin Franklin High School

“Uplift Educate mentorship has had a powerful and positive impact for the middle school young men at Rhodes, particularly for students whose behaviors can be particularly challenging. It had created an additional sense of belonging within the school community for these students while providing engagement in relevant activities and discussions with consistent male guidance and mentorship. This has led to fewer ODRs and serious incidents for the majority of the participants. Because the group is grounded in literacy, it supports student behavioral growth without negatively impacting instructional time.”

Tiffanni Osborne

Principal, Rhodes Elementary School

“The change in how the students themselves is even more evident in their behavior. There hasn’t been a single fight, which says a lot about how they’re learning to handle pressure and disagreements. In addition, we’ve seen consistent growth in STAR reading and math for these scholars. Based on our STAR SGP, Steel has achieved a 52 ELA SGP and a 65 Math SGP school-wide. These scholars were among a group who have made a concerted effort to improve their academic performance. A prime example of this growth is Z.B., who achieved a 95 SGP on the STAR math assessment from fall to winter, moving from ‘Below Basic’ to the ‘High Basic’ category. This progress is a testament to their maturity and the ongoing support of the mentoring program.”

Angikindslows Senatus

Principal, Edward Steel School

“In our freshman academy, impressively, 95% of the [mentored] group has maintained or improved their academic performance since joining. Out of 20 students, 9 have shown grade improvements, and 10 have maintained strong performance. Most notably, all but one student has avoided decline, with targeted support addressing individual challenges.”

Amy Foster

Assistant Principal, Mastbaum High School

“We appreciate the work you are doing so much! You have been incredible. I appreciate how easy you have made it to suddenly have a community of scholars critically thinking about their own future under your mentorship. Thank you for ALL you have done!”

Dr. Nimet Eren

Principal, Kensington Health Sciences Academy

“The mentoring program has created a consistent space for students to reflect, build relationships, and develop accountability. Since the program began, I’ve noticed increased engagement, and willingness to participate in discussions. Several students have begun to show more leadership within the group and are more open about their goals. Overall, students seem to feel more connected to the school community and more motivated to grow academically and personally.”

Oumar Diawara

Dean and Coach, Kensington Health Sciences Academy

“Uplift Educate is providing the young men at Avery D. Harrington an opportunity to engage in real life scenarios as well as conversation geared strictly towards budding men and teens. Providing a safe space for engagement and conversation has supported the shift that we are looking for in our school community, especially with our older and harder to reach scholars.”

Marlita Thorn

Principal, Avery D. Harrington