EFE: "For 8 years, Osen and I have worked to find educational solutions to help disadvantaged students shape their own futures. We feel lucky that we've gotten this far in Camelback’s process, and view this as validation that Achievers Academy is on the right track! We are nervous about the magnitude of the work that lies before us, yet excited about the chance to spearhead that work with the support of this community. More than anything, we are thrilled that students and families in New Brunswick will finally have the chance to receive support to and through college when Achievers Academy opens its doors!"

About Achievers Academy
This will be the only STEM, rigorous, college ­prep secondary school (5-12 grade) that teaches to urban minorities in Elizabeth and Linden.

HATTIE: "I am humbled and honored to be considered a finalist of Camelback Ventures. If selected to a part of the 2017 cohort, I am most excited about meeting other fellows and social entrepreneurs who are making a difference for others. I know that this opportunity will propel my school forward in a way that I could not in my own effort. This is an exciting time and I congratulate each one who is standing with me!"

About Crete Academy
Crete aims to provide a high-quality college preparatory education, while simultaneously manifesting the expectation of not only attending college, but graduating and pursuing dreams after earning the degree. The vision for the school is not only to help low-income or homeless students but also their families.

WISDOM: "I am excited to be a step closer to building community with other entrepreneurs of color. There is nothing more inspiring to me than seeing members of marginalized/oppressed groups think for themselves and courageously pursue their own liberation."

About HackSchool
HackSchool is developing a center-based high school model in which time and attention are separated by social issue rather than by traditional subjects. For example, students will not spend an hour each day in classes like mathematics, literacy, science, etc... Rather, students might rotate and “live” in different focuses such as the Technology and Entrepreneurship Center or the Wilderness Survival and Environmental Sustainability Center.

JOSÉ: ""Podrán cortar todas las flores, pero no podrán detener la primavera." ("You can cut all the flowers, but you cannot keep spring from coming.") - Pablo Neruda.
I feel the regenerative power of what a Camelback fellowship can symbolize for our work in the community. In 2017, we will thrive; build our model, engage the community and soon open the doors to a high quality dual language model-- allow flowers to grow and spring to come. LEEP Academies--presente!"

About LEEP Academies
LEEP Academies of Texas is a community-based, small cluster of affiliated K-8, dual-language schools. Our plan of action seeks to increase the number of high performing educational options for the inner city.

AERAN: "Successful social impact is a complex endeavor that I sincerely believe cannot be accomplished in isolation. I am honored to be a Camelback finalist and for the opportunity to forge connections with other visionaries and creatives in order to spark and sustain meaningful social change. Camelback is a key milestone towards the vision of starting a school that will propel girls of color into positions of leadership and purpose. I envision 2017 as an amazing chance to both grow and give."

About The Nia Academy
The NIA Academy is a 5-day a week public boarding school for 9-12th grade girls in the foster care system. Partnering with HBCUs and other private and public institutions, NIA works to create supportive academic and residential spaces for girls in the foster care system to grow and thrive.