Published on Oct 30, 2024
We would not be able to fulfill our mission without our staff, a group of professionals who intentionally work across difference, are experts in their field, and care deeply about young people and their postsecondary journeys.
Each month, we’ll highlight a member of our team by “passing the mic” to hear directly from them about their work and purpose. This month, we are highlighting one of our Data Strategists, Amanda Baltikas.
What do you do at the Network for College Success?
I serve as a Data Strategist at NCS, working primarily with our Freshmen Success for Equity (FS4E) network. My role goes beyond just analyzing data behind a screen. I support teams in setting the right conditions, finding the relevant data, and engaging in tough conversations to socialize that data. This process helps challenge beliefs and drives action, transforming practices to better serve our young people.
How do you help high school teams build on the work they’re doing and make improvements?
I firmly believe that each adult and team we work with has the capacity to grow and solve their own challenges. With this mindset, I see coaching as creating a safe space for transformation—one that meets people where they are, unpacks competing mindsets, and uses data to highlight teacher efficacy. Together with our coachees and teams, we promote inquiry, identify actionable entry points, build clear data tools, and always center the student experience. The magic of working with adults lies in the conversations we have and the actions that follow.
What about the culture of NCS empowers you to show up the way you do?
At NCS, I am able to show up as my authentic self, which is truly a gift. I’m encouraged to learn from mistakes, highlight my strengths, collaborate with incredible colleagues, and reach out when I need support. My team empowers me to take risks, challenge dominant narratives, and stand in my truth. Our work constantly pushes me to reflect on how I show up in spaces so that I can continue to grow. NCS understands that transformation work is messy, and our community plays a crucial role in picking up the pieces and creating something better. We believe in the power of the collective—and we live by that belief.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is the silence that follows an 'ah-ha' or catalytic moment—whether for myself, my peers, or the teams we work with. It feels like the moment between breaths—a pause for reflection and intention. Witnessing change unfold in community with others is a reward like no other, especially when that change is in service of our young people.
Can you share a memorable moment or achievement during your time with NCS?
While I’ve been with NCS for just over a year, I’ve been a part of the NCS community for over a decade as an educator. During my time at South Shore International, NCS’s coaching and professional learning helped my team and me create a new grading and assessment system that promoted both learning and student success. Our on-track rates reached around 99%. The joy of hearing students reflect on their learning, mistakes, and growth is something I’ll carry with me forever. NCS's support made that possible, and now I hope to bring that same impact to the schools I work with.
Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests that you enjoy pursuing?
I’m all about finding small joys and wins. I can never turn down a fresh cup of coffee and a brand-new crossword puzzle on a sunny morning. Being outside, practicing yoga, and engaging in creative endeavors fill my cup. I probably own too much vinyl and too many cookbooks—but we all have our things!
Want to meet other remarkable staff at NCS? Visit our staff directory page here.
