Five Innovative Schools Awarded for Career Exploration Excellence

On May 11, 2026, five noteworthy schools were recognized for their innovative career exploration programs through the inaugural Future Forward Schools Prize. This initiative, launched by national nonprofits Building Hope and Britebound, aims to empower students from under-resourced communities by providing them with critical career readiness experiences starting as early as middle school.

The prize honors schools that have showcased exceptional models for connecting academic learning with practical career opportunities. Selected from a competitive pool of 256 applicants, each winning institution will receive a portion of the $250,000 prize fund as well as the chance to join the Future Forward Schools Fellowship program, which includes retreats and advisory support to further enhance their impact.

Bill Hansen, President and CEO of Building Hope, emphasized the need for educational institutions to adapt to evolving job markets. He stated, "Many schools are still preparing students for a world that no longer exists. These five schools provide an alternative by allowing students to explore their strengths and interests early on. It's not only beneficial for the students but also beneficial for the communities they will eventually contribute to."

Julie Lammers, President and CEO of Britebound, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of connecting what students learn to future career paths. She remarked, "Research shows that students wish to commence this process earlier than the traditional educational framework allows. These winning schools significantly improve student engagement and prepare them for the future."

The Inaugural Winners

The five institutions awarded the Future Forward Schools Prize include:

1. Comp Sci High (Bronx, NY): This charter school in the South Bronx equips students with essential skills through rigorous training in technology-related fields such as computer science and cybersecurity. Each student completes three paid internships before graduation. The prize funding will support the launch of an alternative high school aiming to assist out-of-school youth.

2. UP Academy Dorchester (Boston, MA): By connecting middle school students to Boston's leading companies, UP Academy's Imagine Your Future program provides hands-on career exploration opportunities. The school has achieved notable recognition for its strong growth in academic performance among high-need students. Funding from the prize will allow them to expand their program and enhance partnerships for a deeper impact.

3. Utica Shale Academy of Ohio (Salineville, OH): Serving at-risk students across four Appalachian counties, Utica Shale Academy integrates industry certifications in welding and robotics into students' graduation pathways, which has led to over 900 certifications in just one year. The funding will enable the introduction of a new Wheel Service and Alignment Certification program, further expanding hands-on learning opportunities.

4. Old Brook High School Parma Campus (Parma, OH): This innovative model enables students to earn both a high school diploma and industry-recognized credentials across various fields such as culinary arts and healthcare. With a remarkable 100% pass rate for cosmetology exams, the grant will allow the school to enhance their industry immersion experiences and support graduates seeking higher education.

5. New Mexico School for the Arts (Santa Fe, NM): As a statewide charter school, NMSA combines extensive pre-professional arts training with academics, boasting a graduation rate significantly higher than the state average. This funding will support the establishment of their Film and Cinematic Storytelling Department, aimed at preparing students to thrive in New Mexico's burgeoning film industry.

Megan Foster, Principal of Old Brook High School, expressed the transformative potential of such prizes, stating, "Our students are brimming with potential but lack the necessary access and exposure. This prize allows us to elevate the opportunities available for our students—even more than we currently provide."

For detailed information about the Future Forward Schools Prize, visit buildinghope.org/futureforwardschools.

About the Organizations

Building Hope is a nonprofit organization committed to advancing educational opportunities by providing facility financing and operational support to schools. Over its 22 years, Building Hope has contributed to more than $2 billion in charter school projects.

Britebound focuses on encouraging youth to explore their passions and potential career paths. Through free resources and programs targeting career readiness, Britebound aims to foster a generation of capable young individuals prepared for their futures. Learn more at britebound.org.