Nationally, LEAP is a model for educating the urban learner through unique, inclusive practices that
Improve students’ educational achievements while meeting their health and social needs;
Replicate best practices and create a new culture of learning;
Integrate education to urban neighborhoods’ economic and community development;
Create a new school-based governance model that
de-bureaucratizes education and brings more funding to schools.

Recognized by local and national organizations for its groundbreaking work in education, LEAP Academy received an inaugural New Jersey Public Charter School Exemplary School Award in 2003 and a 2002—2003 Pioneer Award from the New Jersey Department of Education. The Annie E. Casey Foundation also cited the academy as a “sign of hope” and one of Camden’s “recent successes in improving its overall academic environment and expanding civic engagement.”