The excitement was palpable on June 5, 2024, as students, families, and local leaders gathered to cut the ribbon on Philip’s Academy Charter School of Paterson’s new academic building. The once abandoned property at 94-124 Madison Avenue in Paterson has been transformed into a vibrant educational learning environment, thanks to the efforts of local contractors and investment and development from Building Hope, the non-profit leader in charter school facilities, financing, and services.

“At Building Hope we champion opportunities, like this one at Philip’s Academy Charter School of Paterson, to innovate, to collaborate, and to create lasting change in communities,” said Building Hope Real Estate Senior Vice President Jerry Zayets in remarks made at the ribbon cutting. “We were fortunate to work with partners like Studio Twenty-Seven Architecture and O.A. Peterson Construction Company, to design and build a beautiful facility for Philip’s that would enhance the experience of learning and create connection and social impact in the community.”

“We are thrilled to inaugurate our state-of-the-art school building, a testament to the confidence and commitment of our community and stakeholders,” shared Philip’s Chief Executive Officer Dr. Dowayne Davis in his remarks. “This facility ensures we no longer need to separate students and families across multiple buildings, and we can now prepare healthy meals on-site. Our young people have access to beautiful classrooms, a modern gym, play spaces, and dedicated staff working tirelessly to ensure their social, emotional, and academic growth. As the CEO of Philip’s, I am beyond proud to serve our school and the connect with the broader community of Paterson in our new home.” 

The ribbon-cutting ceremony underscored the community’s support with remarks from Paterson Mayor André Sayegh, Council President Alex Mendez, New Jersey General Assemblywoman Shavonda E. Sumter, NJPCSA Senior Advisor TJ Best, Paterson’s 3rd Ward Council President Alex Mendez, Executive County Superintendent of Schools Kesha Drakeford, and Philip’s CEO Dr. Dowayne Davis. The event also included a message from a Philip’s Academy student and a performance by the school choir.

New Jersey General Assemblywoman Shavonda E. Sumter, who was born and raised in Paterson and who represents the city as its state representative also spoke at the event. “It was important that I be here with you today because this moment is for our city of Paterson and for our students,” said Assemblywoman Sumter. “I salute Philip’s Academy with a citation representing the hard work it took get to here. Thank you to the board, to those who volunteer, to our city council, to our mayor, to our superintendent of schools, and to each of you, for sticking to the fight. Paterson has grit and tenacity, and it took both to get us here today.”

Philip’s Academy, which opened in 2016 with just 60 kindergartners, now serves 660 students from Kindergarten through Grade 8. With the doors opening in April 2024, the academic building brings the entire school community under one roof, replacing three separate locations previously used. The new location also features state-of-the-art amenities such as a basketball court and a full commercial kitchen, enhancing the educational experience.

Philip’s provides a rigorous and moral education to a diverse student body, utilizing a hands-on, technology-infused learning environment that includes both indoor and outdoor spaces. The school’s programs emphasize global citizenship, environmental sustainability, and personal virtue. Philip’s Academy Charter School of Paterson is currently accepting applications for enrollment for grades K-8. Learn more by visiting www.pacspaterson.org.For more information about how Building Hope helps charter schools nationwide with facilities, financing, and operational services customized to their goals and school culture, visit www.buildinghope.org.