MAAC College Prep Program Goes National
- Andrea Smith-Morgan
- a few seconds ago
- 2 min read
A new virtual program is breaking geographic barriers — and transforming how high school students prepare for their futures.
No longer limited to the greater North Jersey area, MAAC’s reach has expanded across
the country, thanks to LevelUp!, a new virtual program designed to help high school
students navigate the high school and college prep process.
A Curriculum Built for the Whole Student
The program curriculum, designed by MAAC executive director and 30-year educator
Andrea Nicole Smith in partnership with Microcasting, a California-based e-learning
platform, includes monthly modules that integrate college preparation education with
social and emotional wellness, community building, and identity development.
“LevelUp is more than a curriculum; it’s a community of bright and ambitious scholars who chose to enrich their high school experience by test-piloting this new program,” said Andrea Nicole. “The richness of this program lies in its diversity. We’ve got amazing students from different states, backgrounds, and school communities coming together with shared aspirations and a deep desire to explore their futures with intention.” — Andrea Nicole Smith Executive Director
Meet the Pilot Scholars
The New Jersey scholars piloting LevelUp! include students from Science Park High
School in Summit, and Sparta High School. The program’s out-of-state pilot scholars
represent school districts in California, Oregon, and Florida.
Community Across Miles
“While we’re spread out geographically, the MAAC team meets with scholars to reflect,
build community, and check in on everyone’s progress. Our first virtual gathering in
December was filled with excitement and genuine engagement,” said Andrea Nicole.
“Scholars shared what they liked and what could be improved on. Their valuable input is
helping us create a program that’s as fun, relevant, and empowering as possible.”
What's Next: Expanding to 11th & 12th Grade
This summer, the MAAC team is working to expand LevelUp for 11th and 12th-grade
scholars, deepening the dive into college exploration, leadership development, and post-
secondary readiness. Once that program is piloted, MAAC hopes to syndicate LevelUp!
for use by other groups around the country.
“This program fills a gap caused by shrinking budgets and staff cuts in schools and
nonprofit services,” Andrea Nicole explained. “Our long-term vision is to share this
program with agencies, organizations, and school districts across the country so more
students have access to holistic, student-centered college and career preparation. MAAC
continues to grow and build every day, and we remain forever grateful to the community
that supports and believes in this work—you make this dream possible.” — Andrea Nicole Smith Executive Director
Pilot scholars Julie, Phoebe, Mila and Angelo work on the LevelUp! module.
Andrea Nicole
Executive Director, MAAC
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