The Moments That Spark Opportunity

$41,659 Raised

$40,000 Goal

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About the Campaign

At Coney Island Prep, we believe in the transformative power of belief. Every day, we work to unlock the potential within each of our scholars, ensuring they have the tools and support they need to rise above challenges and thrive in a world that often discourages their success.

Our mission is to provide a rigorous academic foundation in STEM and ELA, supplemented by afterschool programs, mentorship, college tours, and scholarships—guiding our scholars from Kindergarten through college and beyond. Thanks to the unwavering generosity of our supporters, our scholars are empowered to pursue life-changing opportunities, attending prestigious universities like Cornell, Stanford, and the University of Virginia, and entering the workforce as leaders in fields like education, engineering, and entrepreneurship.

For many of our scholars, these opportunities begin with someone believing in them, just as our CEO, Karen Johnson, experienced when a single act of encouragement changed the course of her life. Now, we invite you to be that spark for the next generation. Your support helps us continue to provide transformative educational experiences that inspire hope, growth, and lasting impact.

Join us in shaping the future—because Opportunity is Yours to Spark.

Learn about our scholars and how your donations spark opportunity

Serenity $7,000

Serenity began her journey at Coney Island Prep in Kindergarten, and now, as a 2nd grader, she has found a home where her creativity and passion for learning can flourish. Whether immersed in drawing, painting, or dancing, Serenity feels free to express herself in every way. She loves CIP because, as she puts it, “I can be whatever I want to be because I know anything is possible.” As a proud Cuban, Puerto Rican, and Nigerian girl, she also finds joy in helping others succeed, often translating for her peers who are still mastering English. CIP is where Serenity’s dreams have no boundaries—where she feels empowered to embrace every possibility.

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Kori $7,000

Kori, a bright 3rd grader, came to Coney Island Prep after seeing her neighbors thrive at the school. Since joining, she has built a deep connection between home and school, finding CIP not just a place of learning but a true community. Kori was particularly drawn to Ms. Jay’s class after participating in a step class for Black History Month, where they bonded over their mutual love for dance–Kori has already been dancing for 8 years. That connection has inspired Kori to keep dancing, now preparing for the Spring showcase with the guidance of Mr. Shields and Mr. McDavid. Beyond her passion for dance, Kori is eager to participate in her class’s upcoming Social Studies fair, confident that CIP nurtures her academic and artistic talents, ensuring she shines in every aspect of her education.

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Breanna $7,000

Now in 8th grade, Breanna reflects on her journey and how different Coney Island Prep feels compared to other schools she's attended. To her, CIP is built on a foundation of excellence—where every teacher pushes her to be her best self. She relies on the encouragement and mentorship of Mr. Terry, knowing that the support she receives here prepares her for her dream of becoming a registered nurse, like her grandmother. Breanna is inspired by her grandmother’s accomplishments and is determined to follow in her footsteps, drawing strength from the CIP community. What she loves most is how CIP brings history and culture to life with lessons that resonate deeply, like reading In the Time of the Butterflies while exploring the Dominican Republic’s history under Trujillo. Breanna knows that CIP is preparing her not just for high school and beyond but for a life of impact.

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Morayo $7,000

For Morayo, a Senior who has been with Coney Island Prep since 5th grade, the school is more than just a place to learn—it’s a family. From the moment she transferred, Morayo felt an overwhelming sense of belonging, especially being surrounded by staff and scholars who shared her background and experiences. This supportive environment has allowed her to take risks academically, something she hadn’t experienced before. Now, she engages deeply with her studies, applying lessons to her life and opening up in ways she never thought possible. As she prepares to apply to colleges, with dreams of studying abroad in Paris and pursuing a career in the medical field, Morayo reflects on how CIP has shaped her, helping her grow not just as a scholar, but as a confident, thoughtful individual ready to take on the world.

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