Everyone Can Lead with Data: Practical Coaching Lessons from the Field
High Tech High "unboxed" article by Amanda Baltikas.
This Intervention Cut Course Failures by a Third. How It Works
Education Week article that discusses GRAD Partnership Student Success Systems.
Some Chicago high schools are rethinking lenient grading amid surging absenteeism
Chalkbeat article, with commentary from Jessica Bunzol.
Slowing Down to Move Forward: The Power of Reflection in Our Work
GRAD Partnership article by Andrea Cortes, Jazmin Fermin, and Sarah Howard.
Unlocking Student Success: Practical Takeaways for Designing Student-Centered Actions
GRAD Partnership article by Andrea Cortes, Jazmin Fermin, and Sarah Howard.
Black History Month -- Looking Forward
Looking back on Black History Month and moving forward recognizing the work still to be done, the Network for College Success would like to honor a few Black leaders in our community who are making extraordinary moves to support young people's education every day. Read below to learn more about these phenomenal educators and administrators!
The Power of Transformational Data to Drive Student Success: Lessons Emerging from the GRAD Partnership Community of Practice
GRAD Partnership article by Krystal Payne and Andrea Cortes.
Team Member Spotlight: Joyce Randall
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 Transformation Coaches, Joyce Randall. What do you do at the Network for College Success?
Team Member Spotlight: Amanda Baltikas
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?
A Meeting I Actually Look Forward To: The Coaching Huddle
High Tech High "unboxed" article by Beth Brown.
Team Member Spotlight: LaKisha Pittman
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 Transformation Coaches, LaKisha Pittman. What do you do at the Network for College Success?
School Year 2025: Brilliant Possibilities Ahead
It’s that time of year again! We are so excited to cheer on our educators and young people as they start a new school year. This time means the start of something new–or the continuation of last year’s growth. The first week of school is exciting, and it can come with a mix of emotions.
Team Member Spotlight: Juan Bautista
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, Juan Bautista. What do you do at the Network for College Success?
Team Member Spotlight: Kate Pressler
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 Transformation Coaches, Kate Pressler. What do you do at the Network for College Success?
Team Member Spotlight: Elizabeth (Beth) Brown
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 our Transformation Manager, Elizabeth Brown. What do you do at the Network for College Success?I serve as a Transformation Manager at NCS.
Team Member Spotlight: Jessica Bunzol
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.
The NFSI Experience: One Week That Can Have A Big Impact on Freshman Success
The National Freshman Success Institute (NFSI) is an immersive, five-day professional learning experience for high school administrators, educators, and staff to build and extend a foundation in Freshman Success work.
Team Member Spotlight: Krystal Payne
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.
Team Member Spotlight: Herumakhi Mutefnout
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.
Building Trust: A Critical Element of Student Success Teams – Experiences of Three High School Principals in Chicago
GRAD Partnership article by Krystal Payne.
Team Member Spotlight: Sandra Ortigoza
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.
Team Member Spotlight: Jim Schwartz
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.
Team Member Spotlight: Eliza Moeller
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.
Team Member Spotlight: Kimberly Hinton
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 Dr.
Team Member Spotlight: Sarah Howard
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.
Empowering Student Success: The Network for College Success (NCS) Journey
Transforming Education TogetherIn 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.
Team Member Spotlight: Adelric McCain
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.
Empowering Educators: Reflecting on this Summer's Transformative Learning Experiences
This summer marked a period of reflection, growth, and empowerment for educators and school leaders who engaged in our immersive professional learning offerings.
UChicago Network for College Success Welcomes Four New Partner High Schools and Expands Existing Partnerships
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (Chicago, IL) The UChicago Network for College Success (NCS) is pleased to announce the addition of four new partner high schools to its esteemed Partner School Network. Joining this collaborative effort to improve outcomes for students across Chicago are Alcott College Prep, Kelvyn Park High School, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. College Preparatory High School, and Wendell Phillips Academy High School.
Maximizing Your Summer Break: Three Considerations for High School Educators and District Leaders
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.
Team Member Spotlight: Jazmin Fermin
The UChicago Network for College Success (NCS) would not be able to fulfill our mission without our brilliant team members. Our staff intentionally works 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 our staff and hearing directly from them about their work and purpose.
Elevate in Action: Empowering Students and Teachers for Transformational Learning
In the landscape of Chicago Public Schools (CPS), a powerful collaboration between the UChicago Network for College Success (NCS) and CPS is evolving how classrooms operate.
GRAD Partnership Recognizes Kelly College Prep as a Spotlight School
Thomas Kelly College Preparatory High School has been selected as a spotlight school by The GRAD Partnership for its exceptional commitment to student success.
Committing to Anti-Racist Learning Environments
Staff Reflect on NCS's Equity Stance and its Impact The UChicago Network for College Success (NCS) believes in the importance of equity work in schools so that adults create safe, anti-racist learning environments for their students. However, to collaborate with educators in this work, we must lead by example. Each NCS staff member writes their own equity stance in which they outline their identity and values and ultimately the purpose of their work.
Elevating Student Success: NCS Leads Transformative Sessions at Carnegie Summit for School Improvement
Leaders from the UChicago Network for College Success (NCS) recently attended the Carnegie Summit on Improvement in Education.
Krystal Payne on the 'Make Me Care About' Podcast: Why Ninth Grade Matters Most
(May 17, 2023)—In a recent episode of the Gates Foundation's "Make Me Care About" podcast, Krystal Payne, Co-Executive Director at the UChicago Network for College Success (NCS), sheds light on the pivotal role ninth grade plays in shaping a student's educational and career trajectory.
Golden Apple Foundation Honors Karen Calloway with Excellence in Leadership Award for Outstanding Contributions to Education
The Golden Apple Foundation has awarded Karen Calloway, principal of Kenwood Academy High School in Chicago, with the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership. Calloway, a longtime partner of the UChicago Network for College Success, was selected as the recipient from over 130 nominations of school leaders in Pre-K-12th grade.
Founder and Co-Executive Director to Step Down After 17 Years of Service
The UChicago Network for College Success (NCS) announced that Founder and Co-Executive Director Sarah J. Duncan will be stepping down in June 2023.
Six NCS Staff Picks to Celebrate World Book Day
The UChicago Network for College Success (NCS) values stories. Through the exchange of stories, we can gain a better understanding, learn something new, and strengthen connections. Additionally, literacy is a critical skill for brain development and learning. Young or old, you’re never the wrong age to appreciate a good book. In honor of yesterday’s World Book Day, we asked NCS staff to share their book recommendations. So here are some stories from NCS and why they are their top picks for a good read.
Cultivating Connections: Resources to Foster Developmental Relationships in High School
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.
Centering Equity in Grading: A Conversation on Equitable Grading Practices in Chicago Public Schools
The author of this blog, Rachel Castro, is the Development Associate with the UChicago Network for College Success. She supports grant writing and reporting initiatives. As a Latinx child of immigrants, I noticed early on that school systems were built for and favored students whose parents knew how to navigate them.
“It’s Iron Sharpening. It’s Capacity Building”
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
3 Things Black Principals of Chicago Want You To Know
The author of this blog, Kayla Brown, is the Development and Communications Manager with the Network for College Success (NCS). She is responsible for supporting fundraising activities and drafting informational and marketing materials. In her spare time, she enjoys reading historical fiction novels and writing poetry. My maternal grandfather was a principal serving St. Louis public schools for decades. He was well known for his authoritative persona and passion for Black children succeeding in school.
Six Stories of Dreaming Big with Students
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.
NCS Named 2022 Employee Engagement Top Performer by DecisionWise
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (Chicago, IL) The Network for College Success (NCS), a project of the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, is proud to announce that it has been recognized as a 2022 Employee Engagement Top Performer Award Winner by DecisionWise. Each year, DecisionWise, a global leader in employee engagement and feedback for over 20 years, conducts employee eng
Expanding 9th-Grade Possibilities to Combat the 3rd Quarter Slump
Over a given school year, the Freshman Success Improvement Community (FSIC) of the Network for College Success (NCS) has supported freshman success teams in helping their high school students achieve high GPAs and On-Track rates.
19 of our Favorite Moments from the School Year (so far)
Over the academic year, the Network for College Success (NCS) partners 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.
My experience at NCS’s Equity-Based Leadership workshop
The author of this blog, Kayla Brown, is the Development and Communications Manager with the Network for College Success (NCS). She is responsible for supporting fundraising activities and drafting informational and marketing materials. In her spare time, she enjoys reading historical fiction novels and writing poetry.I joined the Network for College Success during a time of much heartache and stress. The COVID-19 pandemic hit communities hard, and the world was still reeling from witnessing the murder of George Floyd. As a Black woman, my heart was heavy.
Six Chicago High Schools Share Approaches to Freshman Success at the National Freshman Success Institute (NFSI)
“Being a part of this community has allowed me to candidly share and exchange ideas and motivated me to be a better education professional that can impact student success.” This October, participants of the 2022–23 National Freshman Success Institute (NFSI) reconvened, and, over the span of two days, they delved deeper into Freshman Success work by visiting six Chicago high schools within the Network for College Success (NCS)
From Safe Spaces to Necessary Spaces
Network for College Success (NCS) Celebrates 15+ YearsOn September 22, 2022, NCS welcomed Chicago-based partners, schools, supporters, and friends to celebrate the organization’s collective impact over the past 15 years and counting.
Leading Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) to Center Young People
Q&A with Freshman Success Coach, Lauren Perez PietruszkaThis past August, the Network for College Success hosted its Leading PLCs Training, a workshop designed for educators and high school leaders to foster PLCs in their schools for student success.Professional Learning Communities, or PLCs, are school teams that connect regularly, share expertise, and work collaboratively to improve their practice and the academic experiences of students, particularly their school’s least-served students.
With Freshman Success, NCS starts at the Why
This past July, the Network for College Success (NCS) gathered 100+ high school educators and leaders in-person for the National Freshman Success Institute at the University of Chicago. Image
Nourishing the Four Roots of Anti-racist Leadership: Part Two
This post concludes the 2-part series centered on the NCS roots of anti-racist leadership.
Nourishing the Four Roots of Anti-racist Leadership: Part One
This is the first of a 2-part series.
Grading in an Ongoing Pandemic
We have now been living through the COVID pandemic for almost two years. All through this crisis, we have seen that students in our country are treated differently depending on their demographics.
UChicago Office of Civic Engagement Profile: Dawn Ramos, NCS Partner Principal
Dawn Ramos, long-time NCS partner and principal at Tilden Career Community Academy High School on Chicago’s South Side, was recently highlighted by the University of Chicago Office of Civic Engagement. She credits NCS with helping her school and her own leadership achieve remarkable outcomes. "I don't know if I would have made it as far as I have without their leadership and support," she says.
Gates Notes: On The Right Track in Chicago
In a recent blog post, Gates Notes highlights a success story of NCS, North-Grand High School, which serves the Humboldt Park community in Chicago. In 2012, NCS and North-Grand began working together to increase the number of freshmen who finished the year "on-track." At the time, only 76% of North-Grand's freshmen were on-track. NCS used research findings that showed how the transition from middle school to high school can be especially tough for students.
Chicago Sun Times: Bill Gates lauds academic gains at Chicago high school
Chicago Sun Times recently highlighted Bill Gates' visit to North-Grand High School, where he learned about their freshman intervention program designed to keep students on track for graduation.Gates was impressed by the school's use of evidence-based research to measure and improve performance, including their use of data to bolster student success. He noted that the school's graduation rates have rapidly improved compared to national averages.One of the key factors contributing to North-Grand's success is their freshman intervention program.
NCS Receives Investment from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
The Network for College Success, a project at the University of Chicago's School of Social Service Administration, has received an $11.7m grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to expand its work helping Chicago public high schools improve graduation rates and college success among low-income, black, and Latino students. The initiative provides NCS partner schools with leadership development training, executive coaching, and professional learning sessions to build educator capacity
"The Make-or-Break Year," by Emily Krone Phillips details the story of Freshman On-Track in the city of Chicago
On January 11th, 2019, Emily Krone Phillips launched her new book, The Make-or-Break Year, at a book launch at 57th Street Books. The book focuses on how the dropout crisis could be solved if careful monitoring and support was provided to students in their freshman year of high school.During the event, a panel discussed the "politics of distraction" in education reform and how shifting the focus to solving problems inside schools offers a more effective lever for improvement.
Philanthropy News Digest: Gates Foundation Announces $1.7 Billion Education Initiative
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has just announced a $1.7 billion education initiative aimed at building collaborative school networks.
Education Post: Ninth-Grade GPAs Predict Kids' Futures and Chicago is Raising Them
An EdPost story written by Maureen Kelleher highlights a new report issued by the University of Chicago Consortium on School Research, which sheds light on the importance of ninth-grade GPAs in predicting students' future academic and life outcomes. According to the report, a student's ninth-grade GPA can predict their grades two years later, when they count for college admissions. It also predicts graduation rates and college persistence, making it a critical factor in a student's success.
Data Quality Campaign: Giving All Students a Chance at Success in Chicago
The article, "Giving All Students a Chance at Success in Chicago," explores how high school teachers and leaders in Chicago Public Schools (CPS) are using an on-track indicator to support students who are falling behind. This tool uses information on student behavior, attendance, and grades to identify students who may need extra help to stay on track for graduation.Thanks to the on-track work in CPS, the high school rate of students on track to graduate rose from 57 percent to 84 percent between 2007 and 2014.
Chicago Tribune: NCS has graduation focus
A recent Chicago Tribune article highlights the story of Leticia Gelacio, a sophomore at Lake Forest College who is the first in her family to attend college. Thanks to support from the Network for College Success, Leticia was able to navigate the complicated college application process and secure a full-ride scholarship to one of the top liberal arts colleges in the Midwest. At the Network for College Success, we believe that college success begins long before students set foot on a college campus.