Building Together

The transformative work NCS supports isn’t starting at zero, and it doesn’t happen one school at a time. We’re bringing together school teams that already have knowledge, experience, and passion – so that they can learn from one another and with us. "Building Together" stories highlight the collective learning and growth that occurs in our cohorts through the lens of the educators, counselors, and other school staff who are part of them.

Empowering Student Success: The Network for College Success (NCS) Journey

Published on Sep 22, 2023

Transforming Education Together

In the field of education, the shared aspiration of fostering student success drives us all. One organization heavily involved in this work is the Network for College Success (NCS), founded by Dr. Melissa Roderick, Mary Ann Pitcher, and Sarah Duncan within the University of Chicago’s Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice.

Maximizing Your Summer Break: Three Considerations for High School Educators and District Leaders

Published on Jul 31, 2023

As high school educators and district leaders, it is crucial to approach the summer break with intentionality. This period presents a valuable opportunity to focus on personal growth, recharging, and preparing for the upcoming school year. 

By dedicating time to our own development and well-being, we can better serve our students and create transformative learning environments.

Cultivating Connections: Resources to Foster Developmental Relationships in High School

Published on Apr 17, 2023

As young people transition to high school, building strong relationships with adults and peers is critically important. Research shows that students who experience a strong web of Developmental Relationships (DR) in their families, classrooms, youth programs, and faith communities are likelier to thrive.

“It’s Iron Sharpening. It’s Capacity Building”

Published on Mar 6, 2023

Reflections from the conclusion of the 2022–23 National Freshman Success Institute

Throughout the National Freshman Success Institute (NFSI), the UChicago Network for College Success (NCS) works with administrators, teachers, counselors, and other school staff to build knowledge and skills and shift perspectives that will lead to greater student success, particularly for 9th-graders.
Last month, over 100 participants completed the Institute, culminating in a final in-person convening at the Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and

Six Stories of Dreaming Big with Students

Published on Feb 6, 2023

NCS Celebrates National School Counseling Week

Here at the UChicago Network for College Success, we partner with educators, school leaders, and districts to build transformational high school experiences that prepare all students for academic, career, and community-based success after graduation.
It involves deep self-reflection and a continued commitment to building equity.
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