Uncommon Schools

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit organisation that starts and operates urban public charter schools in historically under-resourced communities. Founded in 1997, it runs 53 K-12 public charter schools across five regions: Boston, MA; Camden, NJ; Newark, NJ; New York City; and Rochester, NY.

Its schools deliver rigorous academics alongside strong cultural foundations and extensive student support systems, with the stated aim of preparing students from low-income communities to graduate from college and to develop the skills and character traits needed for long-term success. The organisation reports that more than 99% of its high school students are admitted to four-year colleges, and that its pupils consistently outperform peers in higher-income suburban schools on state exams.

Work is structured around a mission focused on closing the college completion gap. The organisation is mission-driven and serves low-income communities, with an emphasis on college readiness and access, character development, and sustained academic achievement across its K-12 network.