Breaking Barriers: The Remarkable Journey Of College Prep Jewish Academy (CPJA) Middle School Students

What were these individuals celebrating? An achievement that has never been seen in the history of Florida. In the heart of Hollywood, Florida, amidst a diverse community of immigrants and working-class families, lies College Prep Jewish Academy—a beacon of hope and opportunity for its students. Against all odds, the Middle School students at College Prep achieved something truly extraordinary, rewriting the narrative of what's possible for young learners. All students in the 8th Grade Honors class at College Prep passed the PERT college entrance exam and are now taking college classes for college credit. That was not a typo, 8th graders taking college courses! This evening celebrated the triumph of hope, hard work, and determination!

The passing of the PERT exam by the entire 8th-grade class at College Prep is a testament to students’ academic prowess and determination. Head of School, Rabbi Chaim Albert compared this achievement to the story of Rabbi Akiva, the great Jewish sage who only began learning Torah later in life yet achieved greatness through determination and humility.

The PERT (Postsecondary Education Readiness Test) exam serves as a crucial milestone for students aspiring to pursue higher education, assessing their readiness for college-level coursework. Passing the dual enrollment exam was once believed to be reserved for elite upperclassmen, in 10th and 11th grade. College Prep has shattered all preconceived notions by preparing their middle school students to pass this challenging exam.

These 8th grade students in College Prep are now on their way to complete over 2 years of college credits while still in high school. This incredible feat will help these students as they attempt to apply for college in the future but will also save families/students thousands of dollars in the high sticker cost of college. By gaining early exposure to college-level coursework, these students are not only preparing for their future but also gaining a competitive edge in higher education and beyond.

What’s the secret sauce of College Prep? Instead of waiting until students reach high school, College Prep starts laying the foundation for college readiness in middle school. College Prep’s motto is “College Starts Day 1.”

Central to the success of College Prep is its exceptional staff, composed of highly qualified educators dedicated to nurturing the potential of every student. A staggering 100% of College Prep staff hold Masters Degrees, a testament to their commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. At the helm of this dedicated team is the Chief Academic Officer, a Harvard graduate whose leadership and vision have propelled College Prep to new heights of excellence.

Leading College Prep's success story are two remarkable individuals—Yaisa Rodriguez and Marie Yoda, the Directors of College Prep and Honors Tracks. With a keen understanding of the unique challenges faced by 8th-grade students, Rodriguez and Yoda have devised a winning formula for preparing them for college success. Their innovative approach combines rigorous academics, personalized support, and a nurturing learning environment, empowering students to exceed expectations and reach their full potential.

College Prep also provides learning tracks to meet the multiplicity of interests of students. These tracks empower students to take ownership of their education, pursue their passions, and cultivate the skills and experiences necessary to thrive in college and beyond. Whether students choose the Honors Track, College Prep Track, or Jewish Business Academy Track, they are equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and resilience to succeed in their academic and professional pursuits.

Gad Elbaz beautifully summarized the evening by delivering an inspiring speech highlighting the crucial mission of bringing students out of public schools and into College Prep. Money must never stand in the way of a Jewish child claiming his rightful Jewish education. His words resonated deeply with the audience, underscoring the importance of education and the power of community support in shaping the future generation.

The story of College Prep demonstrates the Jewish belief that greatness may be achieved through humility and hard work. May this evening bring inspiration and hope to the Jewish future!

For more information visit: https://www.tjacollegeprep.com/ Or WhatsApp: (954) 668-1171.