Uplift Education Celebrates Opening of Uplift Mighty Prep in Ft. Worth

Uplift Education, the largest charter school network in North Texas, marked the official opening of two new schools in Fort Worth with a celebratory event at Uplift Mighty Prep in Southeast Fort Worth September 20, 2012.  The event honored alumni of the Masonic School and Home of Texas, a historic orphanage that operated on the site from 1899 until 2005. 

Sports broadcaster Scott Murray moderated an inspiring panel discussion on the legacy of the location and underscored enthusiasm for its new use as an outstanding public charter school operated by nationally recognized Uplift Education.  A panel discussion included Uplift Education CEO Yasmin Bhatia; writer Jim Dent, author of the best-selling Twelve Mighty Orphans, about the orphanage’s legendary football team of the 1930’s and ‘40s; and Arthur Calcaterra, board member of the Masonic Home’s Ex-students association.

More than a dozen Masonic Home alumni attended, expressing gratification that the school is again a place of academic distinction.  Uplift Education has gained recognition from the Washington Post, Newsweek, the Washington Post and others for its academic rigor and the success of its programs.

Uplift Education CEO Yasmin Bhatia said, “We knew this location had a special historic legacy the moment we visited.”  She added, “We are very pleased to bring a public charter school to the neighborhood and hope it will be a powerful focus of the community for years to come.”

“These children are here for a better environment, education and opportunity just like we were,” said Masonic Home alumni and panel member Arthur Calcaterra.

In final thoughts during the discussion, author Jim Dent said, “Uplift is bringing humanity back to a place known for its humanity.”