Academic Gateways

Through a successful collaboration between New Jersey After 3 (NJA3) and the Urban League of Essex County, the Academic Gateways After-School Program is dedicated to the educational, social, and recreational betterment of students at Union Avenue Middle School. Through academic enrichment, creative learning, leadership development and the arts, Academic Gateways offers a comprehensive, meaningful and fun educational experience to its participants.

Academic Gateways. "Studying hard."

Who we are...

The Academic Gateways staff consist of:

Site Director, Lori Walton
Site Assistant, Ciandress P. Jackson

Academic Enrichment Teachers
Creative Arts Instructors
Youth Developers/Teachers Aides
Tutors,Parents,Volunteers
in collaboration with:

Ronald Bligh, Principal
Muhammed Baala, Assistant Vice Principal Kelly Bowser, Assistant Vice Principal

Each student receives an hour of homework help, an hour of creative learning/academic enrichment, and an hour of physical/creative performing arts M-Th. "Fantastic Fridays" are reserved for trips and fun activities. We encourage parents to consult with their child when coordinating their schedule. Schedules will rotate on 6-8 week cycles. Additional homework help will be provided upon request.

Q. Who qualifies?
A. All students attending Union Avenue Middle School are eligible to participate in the program, including students that are gifted and those with special needs.

Q. How do I enroll my child?
A. Applications are located in the school's Main Office, all Guidance offices and in the 2nd floor library. Applications can also be mailed to you.

Q. Is there a fee?
A. We encourage an enrollment fee. All returning students are encouraged to pay a one-time fee of $25.00. New students pay $50.00. Payment arrangements are available. Under the No Child Left Behind Act, we will not deny a child's participation regardless of race, ethnicity, religion or financial situation. Fees are paid to the Site Director only and can be cash, check or money order (made payable the Urban League of Essex County).

Academic Gateways. "Playing hard."

To give a gift in support of this program, please call the President and CEO Vivian Cox-Fraser at (973) 624-9535 ext. 102 or click here to Donate online.