YPIE Awarded Multi-Year Grant To Expand YPIE Jersey City College And Career Readiness Program
- Susan Schwartz
- Oct 28
- 2 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
YPIE Jersey City Senior Director Catherine Buck and New Jersey State Senator Angela McKnight
JERSEY CITY, NEW JERSEY, October 28, 2025 — Yonkers Partners in Education (YPIE) announced today that it has been awarded a 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21CCLC) grant from the New Jersey Department of Education, providing $475,000 per year, renewable for up to five years, to expand after-school and summer learning opportunities for high school students participating in YPIE Jersey City.
The 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21CCLC) program is a federally funded initiative that supports the creation of high-quality academic and enrichment opportunities beyond the regular school day. This grant will enable YPIE to expand its Jersey City program, furthering its mission to prepare students for success from high school through college and into meaningful careers.
Since launching in 2023 in partnership with the Jersey City Public Schools, YPIE Jersey City is growing, currently serving more than 200 students at Dickinson, Ferris, and Lincoln High Schools. The program provides college and career guidance and recently celebrated its first graduating class in June 2025.
YPIE Jersey City Scholars receive academic enrichment and explore career pathways at the YPIE Jersey City College Zone, located at Saint Peter’s University. The program also includes family engagement events, college visits, and service-learning opportunities to help students build a lasting network of support.
The YPIE Jersey City 21CCLC program will enable YPIE to expand its after-school and summer programs, providing consistent mentoring, academic support, and access to postsecondary planning resources. The program centers on Career Exploration, integrating hands-on learning with guidance from YPIE staff, volunteers, and local industry partners. Scholars participate in YPIE’s signature “Majors” program, where they delve into topics such as science research, finance, healthcare, and debate, while strengthening literacy, math, and problem-solving skills.
“We are honored to receive this transformative investment from the New Jersey Department of Education,” said Sam Wallis, YPIE CEO. “This grant allows us to bring YPIE’s proven college and career readiness model to more Jersey City students, helping them to prepare for the rigors of college, develop essential skills, and envision pathways to careers in which they will thrive.”
YPIE is grateful for its partnership with the Jersey City Public Schools, Saint Peter’s University, and members of the YPIE Jersey City Advisory Board.
“YPIE has been an exceptional partner in helping our students discover their potential and chart their futures,” said Dr. Norma Fernandez, Superintendent of Jersey City Public Schools. “This grant will ensure even more students have access to the guidance and opportunities they deserve.”
“Our Jersey City students deserve every opportunity to pursue their goals,” stated Catherine Buck, YPIE Jersey City Senior Director. “With this grant, we are ensuring that more YPIE Jersey City students are equipped not only to enter college but to thrive once they get there.”
To learn more about volunteering, partnerships, or to register your student, please email jerseycity@ypie.org or visit ypie.org/jerseycity.
Media Contact
Susan Schwartz
Senior Director of Communications, YPIE
sschwartz@ypie.org 914-377-4882