National Freshman Success Institute: Improving High School Graduation Rates

The National Freshman Success Institute is an immersive five-day professional learning experience for high school administrators, educators, and staff to build and extend a foundation in equity-centered Freshman Success work. 

Registration is now open for NFSI 2026!

Dates: June 24-26 and October 8-9 

Location: University of Chicago

REGISTER HERE

THE INSTITUTE PROVIDES...

• Five full days of powerful in-person professional learning 

• Community learning including: extended practice, small group work, data support, and/or joint problem solving

• Self-guided learning and collaboration activities that utilize best practices 

• Resource and tools for individuals, teams, and schools

PARTICIPANTS WILL...

• Learn how to successfully transition students from middle to high school

• Examine the research on what matters the most for high school success

• Support students to stay on-track to graduation by building and leading freshman teacher teams

• Analyze data to inform instruction and student supports

• Explore how to move beyond mitigating course failure to improving course performance

• Engage in collaborative action planning 

COST & PARTICIPATION

• $3,000 per person (before May 13)

• $3,500 per person (before June 3)

• $3,000 per person if registering as a team of 5 or more

• $2,500 per person if registering as a team of 12 or more

Cost includes breakfast and lunch each day, and all materials. All electronic and paper materials will be made available only to registered participants. It is also encouraged that you bring a laptop or electronic device. 

NCS recommends attending as a team of at least three educators. Principals are highly encouraged to register as well as freshman teacher leaders, counselors, and educators with data experience (proficient in Excel). 

If you have any questions, you can visit out FAQ page or contact Evelyn Camarillo (ecamarillo@uchicago.edu).