MAAC College Prep Program Goes National

Andrea Smith-Morgan
Mar 1
2 min read

Updated: Feb 27

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 Newark, East Orange Campus High School, Montclair High School, Kent PlaceSchool 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