Flagship Education Program
Helping Students in Foster Care Succeed in School and Beyond
Nationwide, only 60 percent of youth in foster care graduate from high school. Many leave school without the preparation needed for work or further education.
UGrad Academy is changing that — with results verified by a Cornell University study.
Proven Results, Backed by Cornell University
A year-long independent study by Cornell University analyzed five years of UGrad Academy data. The research confirmed that UGrad students are more likely to attend school, advance to the next grade, and graduate from high school than similar students not in the program.This means UGrad’s impact was rigorously evaluated, independently verified, and recognized at a national research standard rarely achieved by nonprofit programs.
UGrad High School Graduation Rate
UGrad Grade Promotion Each Year
UGrad Grade Increase by Subject
Average point increase on a 0–100 scale compared to similar students not in UGrad.
UGrad Mean Number of Days Absent
per School Year
Independent research validation
Cornell University confirms UGrad’s long-term impact
A year-long study by Cornell researchers analyzed five years of UGrad Academy data and compared it to Delaware Department of Education data for foster youth who were not enrolled in UGrad during the same time period. Researchers found that students in UGrad are more likely to:
- • Advance to the next grade
- • Stay in school with improved attendance
- • Graduate from high school
- • Make significant gains across subject areas
The strength of these results led to publication in the peer-reviewed journal Children and Youth Services Review, a leading academic journal in child welfare research. This means UGrad’s impact was rigorously evaluated, independently verified, and recognized at a national research standard rarely achieved by nonprofit programs.
Research completed by Cornell University’s Bronfenbrenner Center for Translational Research and published in Children and Youth Services Review.
Our Approach
UGrad Academy provides holistic, relational support through three core pillars.
A Mentor Who Shows Up
Consistent meetings with a trusted Education Specialist build the stability and trust students need to stay engaged in school.
Coaching for School and Life
One-on-one academic advocacy, tutoring connections, and real-world skill-building prepare students for life after high school.
A Circle of Support
UGrad collaborates with schools, foster parents, DFS, and caregivers so every student has a team behind them.
Changing Lives
UGrad Academy helps children and youth in foster care build confidence, succeed academically, and move forward with the steady support of caring adults.
Give Hope TodayRefer a Student
Teachers, foster parents, caregivers, and DFS officers can refer a youth in foster care to UGrad Academy.
After submitting, you will receive a confirmation email and our team will begin the intake coordination process.