Ellen and Robert Thompson
The Thompson Foundation
UPSM Schools are supported by the Thompson Foundation whose mission is to help low-income people rise out of poverty and become self-sufficient. Many of the foundation’s initiatives are focused on creating educational opportunities for Detroit youth. This includes funding scholarships to colleges and universities such as Schoolcraft, Michigan Tech University and Michigan State University.
Robert and Ellen Thompson formed the Thompson Foundation in 1999 with a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Thompson-McCully Company, Michigan’s largest asphalt paving company.
Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan
The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan contributed $1.5 million to support the construction of UPSM High School. The donation is from the CFSEM’s Detroit Neighborhood Fund, which supports near eastside neighborhood development. Read more about this initiative by clicking here.
Detroit Science Center (DSC)
The partnership between the Detroit Science Center and UPSM provides an opportunity for students and teachers to combine classroom learning with hands-on exhibits and interaction with professional engineers and scientists on a daily basis. The relationship provides experiential learning in areas of the museum’s focus such as engineering, space and telecommunications, medical science, transportation and fuel technologies of the future.
“We want this school to be the Cal Tech or MIT breeding ground, the way to get into the top schools” says DSC Executive Director Kevin Prihod.
Project Lead the Way
Project Lead The Way (PLTW) middle and high school STEM education programs are providing the inspiration for a new generation of innovators, the practical skills and hands-on experience to make students’ knowledge count in the real world, and the basis for the next generation of leadership in the sciences, technology, engineering and mathematics.
University of Michigan
An exciting collaboration with the U-M College of Engineering allows UPSM students to work directly with college faculty and professional engineers to develop advanced engineering-related lessons, providing experiences and career exposure for both students and staff. The partnership includes curriculum development, professional development, on-campus experiences and research opportunities, as well as mentoring and college application and preparation assistance.
Detroit Symphony Orchestra
UPSM students enjoy music instruction provided by one of Detroit’s premier cultural organizations. Through the Power of Dreams String Program, students can also attend DSO behind-the-scenes rehearsals and concerts.
