Prep School Located In This Predominantly African-American Community Sees A 100% College Acceptance Rate For Class Of 2026 – AfroTech
Southland College Prep Charter High School’s 2026 class has more than one reason to celebrate this graduation season.
According to the Jacksonville Free Press, its 135 graduating seniors have collectively received more than 1,300 college acceptances nationwide. What’s more, the class has received $54 million in merit- and need-based scholarships. In particular, Valedictorian LeiLani Barnes will attend the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to pursue a degree in kinesiology and dance, while Salutatorian Loren Rounds will attend Northwestern University to study political science and public health, according to the Black Information Network.
Furthermore, seven students received full-ride scholarships to California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and three received full rides to Washington University in St. Louis.
“In December of my senior year, I was blessed with the privilege of receiving a full-ride scholarship to Washington University,” Senior Terrill Chambers said, according to Fox 32 Chicago. “It alleviated a lot of the stress my family and my mom would have had to cover for college expenses. I’m able to pursue my dreams in the business school without worrying about graduating with a large amount of debt.”
Robert Lane, Southland’s director of college admissions, told the Black Information Network:
“Admissions to the top schools are important, but equally important is that every student finds a school that is right for them. That has always been the mission here — to make sure every child leaves Southland with a pathway to success.”
As AFROTECH™ previously reported, Southland College Prep Charter High School is located in a predominantly African-American community, per its website, and has a track record of success. In 2024, its entire graduating class received acceptances to universities, including top Historically Black Colleges and Universities such as Howard University, Spelman College, Morehouse College, Xavier University of Louisiana, and Hampton University.
Southland College Prep Charter High School’s senior class has achieved a 100% acceptance rate for the past 13 years, according to Fox 32 Chicago.
