More than 82% of Uplift Education’s Class of 2026 is already college ready through the ACT, SAT, or Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA), surpassing the network’s original goal of 70%. This historic achievement places Uplift among the top-performing school systems for college readiness in Texas and highlights the impact of intentional college preparation programs designed to help students succeed after high school.
As one of the largest public charter school networks in North Texas, Uplift Education remains committed to ensuring every scholar graduates prepared for college, careers, and lifelong success.
What Does College Readiness Mean?
College readiness measures whether students are prepared to succeed in college-level coursework without requiring remedial classes. Students who demonstrate college readiness through exams such as the ACT, SAT, or TSIA are better positioned to earn college credits sooner, reduce the cost of higher education, and access a broader range of college and scholarship opportunities.
For families, college-ready students often experience a smoother transition to higher education, saving both time and money while increasing the likelihood of earning a degree. According to Commit, 63% of all jobs in Texas will require some postsecondary education by 2031. Uplift is not only preparing students for college, but also preparing them to achieve the degrees and certificates they need to participate in the 21st century economy.
Uplift Students Continue to Outperform State Benchmarks
College readiness remains a critical indicator of postsecondary success across Texas. For the past three years, Uplift students have outperformed the Texas state college-readiness average of 34%. This year, seniors more than doubled the state average, outperforming many traditional school districts across the Dallas-Fort Worth region.
This milestone reflects Uplift Education’s ongoing focus on academic excellence, college admissions preparation, and ensuring students have access to the resources needed to pursue ambitious postsecondary goals.
The Strategy Behind Student Success
Strong college and career readiness outcomes do not happen by chance. Uplift’s achievement is the result of a comprehensive support system designed to help scholars succeed academically and prepare for life after high school.
Key initiatives include:
- ACT, SAT, and TSIA preparation programs
- Instructional coaching and academic interventions
- Dedicated math interventionists and targeted support services
- Professional development and teacher training
- College and career advising
- Student recognition programs that celebrate academic achievement
These efforts create a culture where scholars are empowered to set goals, track progress, and take ownership of their futures.
As Britteny Cooper, Uplift’s Senior Director of College & Career Preparation, explains:
“The student is the driver. Our scholars are setting goals, advocating for themselves, and leading important conversations with their families about their college journeys and future aspirations.”
A Community Effort
This college readiness milestone is a reflection of the collective commitment of scholars, educators, families, donors, and community partners.
Our teachers and staff work every day to provide rigorous instruction and personalized support. Families play a vital role by encouraging and supporting their scholars throughout their educational journey. Donors and community partners help expand access to programs and opportunities that make college and career success possible.
Together, they have created an environment where students can thrive academically and confidently pursue their goals.
Preparing the Next Generation of College-Ready Graduates
The Class of 2026 has already demonstrated what is possible when students are surrounded by high expectations, strong support systems, and meaningful opportunities.
As Uplift Education continues to advance college readiness in Texas, this achievement serves as a powerful reminder that every scholar can succeed when given the tools, encouragement, and preparation needed to reach their full potential.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026 on this record-breaking accomplishment. Their success is helping redefine what college readiness looks like for students across North Texas.
