UrbanPromise Academy is a private, Christian high school which prepares students for success in their chosen path after graduation. The Academy offers a low teacher to student ratio, individual attention, a caring, connected community, and experiential and expeditionary learning opportunities.
1:12
Teacher to Student Ratio
Low ratios support academic achievement and support our relationship-based approach
100%
Scholarship Recipients
All students receive customized scholarships based on each family’s financial needs
89%
Graduation Rate
In a city that sees a 60% graduation rate, we aim to maximize high school achievement for students
85%
Higher Ed Transition
Among graduates, 76% transition to college and 9% enroll in vocational training
15
Expeditions Per Year
Cross-cultural experiences, historical perspectives, leadership development, and team-building exercises are just some of the key elements
44%
Students Employed
Students have the opportunity to work in our environmental programs, after school programs, and summer camps
”Not a lot of people in my community can say 'I just went camping with my best friend' or 'I went paddling on the river with my teacher.”
Angie, 9th Grade
Academics

Math

Our math curriculum allows students to master concepts and move on to more difficult math levels while learning how math is used in real life.

Science

In addition to our classroom curriculum, students have many opportunities to learn and grow as scientists and develop curiosity for the world around them and confidence that they can and will make a difference.

History

At the UPA, students use the study of history to develop their critical thinking skills and apply those skills to understand historical and modern perspectives.

English

From a foundation in grammar, spelling, and literacy to an exploration of ethnic literature, our English curriculum is both fundamental and exploratory.

Spanish

Learning to communicate in multiple languages opens up new opportunities, exposes new ways of thinking, and creates the opportunity to build new connections with diverse people.

Technology

The Academy’s tech classes ensure students can use technology in school and everyday life.  All students learn to be computer programmers, the quickest growing job field in the U.S.

Faith Development

Studying the Bible, students are encouraged to ask difficult questions and form their beliefs about the most important questions in life.

Health & Wellness

Classes support the overall well-being of our students by helping them master Socio-Emotional competencies as well as developmental skills.

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Experiential Learning Integration

UrbanTrekkers

Through travel to places beyond their everyday lives, students are motivated to learn more about themselves and the world around them and to develop their potential as young leaders. Each grade has at least one, multi-day trip focused around participants’ cross-cultural experiences, environmental awareness, historical knowledge, and/or community service.

Wellness

Mind/Body Connection

Movement

Students engage in intervals of yoga, cross fit training and other movement based activities. The annual Move Challenge engages children, parents and staff to promote positive mental health through physical activity.

Resources for Regulation

Counseling & Support

Students have access to counseling support and are taught mindfulness and breathing techniques as tools for self-regulation. A Wellness room is available to support student’s independence in regulating their own emotions.

Socio-emontional

Girls Empowerment

Youth in grades 8-12 participate in monthly activities geared at cultivating healthy socio-emotional development, life skills and college/ career preparation.

School FAQ
How do I enroll my child in the school?

Please see the Enrollment page to learn more about how to enroll your child.

How much does the school cost?

UrbanPromise will offer a scholarship to all students. The scholarship is need-based and covers between 33% and 100% of the tuition cost. As part of your enrollment process, the principal or enrollment officer will review your income information and let you know the scholarship amount for which you qualify. Other potential costs include uniforms, transportation, and the school breakfast and lunch program—although most families qualify for free or reduced price breakfast and lunch.

What extra educational services are available for my child?

Children who qualify for additional services–either because of their standardized test scores or because of an evaluation by the Child Study team–have access to extra individualized or small group help from instructional aides or supplemental teachers and can have modifications made to their assignments or extra time to complete assignments or tests. Volunteer tutors, screenings by a school nurse, and extra help from teachers during or after school are available for all students. UrbanPromise schools do not have any self-contained classrooms, so any students who need that level of support in order to do their best may wish to consider another educational alternative.

Can my child play sports if they attend the high school?

The local public high school the student would attend, if they did not attend our school, is required by law to allow that student to try-out or participate in sports at the public high school like any student at that school.

Is there a uniform?

CamdenForward School and UrbanPromise Academy require students to wear a uniform. Uniform City on Broadway in Camden supplies uniforms for UrbanPromise students. Parents will receive a list of acceptable uniform options as a part of their application packet.

What is expeditionary learning?

UrbanPromise’s experiential learning programs expose youth to the diversity of people, places, and natural landscapes outside the environment of their everyday lives. Our programming follows the philosophy that education is a lifelong journey that, when nurtured, leads to an endless childlike curiosity and a continual quest to know “why.” Each component is designed to complement the academic rigors in place within the UrbanPromise classroom.  UrbanTrekkers aids in the leadership and character development of countless middle and high school youth, encouraging them to become motivated, disciplined, goal-oriented, and successful members of society.

Will my child have classes like art and gym?

Yes, both CFS and UPA offer art and gym All students participate in gym class each week. All CamdenForward School students have weekly art classes. UrbanPromise Academy students can choose to take art as one of their electives.

What does discipline look like at the school?

Discipline policies at the schools are designed to promote a safe and positive learning environment for everyone in the school community. Discipline is not about punishing bad behavior but about helping students develop self-control and self-regulation. Policies in the school seek to keep students in the classroom as much as possible while still providing a safe environment for everyone involved.

How will my child get back and forth to and from school?

Unfortunately, at the moment UrbanPromise is unable to provide transportation to and from school for our students. However, transportation supports are available. The Camden Board of Education provides bus passes for students living within Camden but more than a few miles from the school. Parents living outside Camden who drive their children to and from school can often apply for reimbursement from their local school district.

Is there an after school program for students?

There is an after care program for students at the CamdenForward School (K-8) called Elevate. Elevate is operated by the school and is only for students that attend our school. UrbanPromise offers additional neighborhood-based after school and summer camp programs for children in grades 1-8 that are open to our students and the community.

Meet Our Staff
Vice President of Schools & Programs
Andy Joshua, MPM
UrbanPromise Academy Principal
Calvin Carthan
Dean of Students
Marycel Rodriguez