Andrea Hightower on LinkedIn: Ten Community-Based Collaboratives Recognized as Exemplars in Education… (2024)

I'm so thrilled that two of our three Thrive by 25 sites (Baltimore and Albuquerque) have been recognized by the Carnegie Corporation as exemplary partnerships where leaders from different fields – such as medicine, business, technology, and public schooling – are joining forces to help low-income students thrive and participate in their communities. To learn more about Thrive By 25: https://lnkd.in/en_sFN9fBaltimore's Promise: A 2017 study found that 26 percent of Baltimore City Schools graduates in 2009 had neither pursued higher education nor entered the workforce six months after graduation; only 12 percent had earned college degrees after six years; and 29 percent of city residents between the ages of 18–24 were living in poverty.Grads2Careers, a collaboration between Baltimore City Public Schools, the Mayor’s Office of Employment Development, and Baltimore’s Promise, is addressing these community challenges through an initiative that provides pathways for recent high school graduates into career-track jobs as part of the StriveTogether network. The initiative funds occupational skills training opportunities in local high-growth fields. Of the more than 950 young people served by Grads2Careers as of February 2024, 660 have completed a training program, with another 108 still in training. Of those who completed the program, 68 percent had obtained a job within six months.Future Focused Education: In 2018, a ruling in the lawsuitYazzie/Martinez v. State of New Mexicofound that New Mexico was not providing all students with rigorous, career-preparatory education; access to work-based learning to compete for high-wage careers went to only 3.8 percent of the best-resourced students. Since then, Future Focused Education, a New Mexico-based nonprofit, has worked with the state to help school districts develop work-based learning for underserved students, pairing students with local health care employers, and providing monthly stipends to the students.With a statewide health care staffing shortage of nearly 18,000 professionals, its X3 Internship health care program facilitates relationships between young people and clinics, hospitals, high schools, postsecondary institutions, and health care partners. More than 90 percent of interns in the program have improved career attitudes, awareness, skills, or connections. Ninety-one percent of employer mentors report a positive experience. There are now more than 100 health care internship placements annually. At least 35 percent of interns receive employment or additional work-based learning directly out of the program.https://lnkd.in/evhaBVJA

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I shared just over a year ago that I decided to leave corporate life and pursue a degree in Social Work. This past year has been an incredible journey. I’ve spent the time simply catching my breath. For the first time in my adult life, I had the privilege and luxury of not being bound to the grind of balancing full time work and family/home responsibilities. I have been working part-time, volunteering, and spending time with my son Charlie, family and friends. I also applied to university for a Bachelor of Social Work degree. During that process I learned quickly how limited my options were. The reality is, there currently are no affordable and inclusive after-school programs for teenagers with disabilities; I needed an online program. Additionally, given I already have a BA, I didn’t need a 4 year program. I searched for universities that met my criteria - virtual, and offered a 2 year post-degree for a BSW. I pretty much had to put all my eggs in the one basket I could find that met my criteria.This past month I learned that my one and only basket said no. My hopes of starting a post-degree for my BSW this coming September extinguished in one email indicating I wasn’t accepted into their program. Gratefully, having so many life lessons teach me the necessity of a back up plan, this spring I had applied to Mohawk college for an online program - Community and Social Services Management and was accepted. After receiving the email that I did not get into the BSW program, I accepted their offer. I started this past month.However, the story doesn’t end there. I found out this past week I was accepted to McMaster for the BSW post-grad degree. I had applied with the hopes I’d be able to find after school care, which hasn’t been the case. At first I felt equally happy and frustrated. Happy to have been accepted, frustrated that I couldn’t accept the offer since I can’t do in person. I reached out to Mac, explained my situation, and they said I just need to attend one class to stay enrolled. So I’ve decided (either bravely or crazily - time will tell) to take both programs concurrently. This September I’ll continue in my Mohawk program with the hopes it will support my goal in finding a job helping people in a meaningful way, and continue the BSW part-time, however long it takes. I could not do any of this without the love, support and encouragement from my family and friends. I am truly blessed and grateful.

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Deadline extended: paid placement opportunities with Midtown Utica Community CenterMIDTOWN UTICA COMMUNITY CENTER(MUCC) would like to workwith#syracuseuniversity students for paid placementofferingcapacity assessment/building, strategy development, and fundraising to MUCC starting on 01 September 2023 until 12 December 2023.MUCC is based in Utica and at an exciting transition and growth phase. MUCC is an inclusive multicultural and refugee-friendly space in Utica, New York. MUCC programming is designed to enhance the safety, health, and educational opportunities of a diverse community.We would like to work with 2 MPAs and/or MAIR students + 2 junior and/or senior CCE students.+CCE undergraduate students can earn academic credits with this project and placement!!+Also, CCE undergraduate students selected and hired for this project can take this opportunity to complete their MAX 401 coursework!!Students would put to practice their current learning, and strengthen their capacity building, strategy development and fundraising skills.The project has three components and will start in September-December '23 and will include:- Capacity assessment of MUCC (using new nonprofit/social enterprise tool to assess the organizational capacity of MUCC, and gather data on e.g., leadership, operations, HR, day to day decision-making, project selection etc.);- Turn data into a strategic roadmap or blueprint and carve MUCC operating model for the next 12-18 months (e.g., using the nonprofit operating model canvas tool);- Help MUCC develop an updated fundraising plan - lay the foundations for internal systems and procedures to identify, engage, evaluate, solicit, recognize, and steward donor and donor prospects - to achieve fundraising objectives.We are flexible with students working remotely.Travel to Utica may be required two or three times throughout the placement. Travel expenses will be reimbursed. This project will be run under the supervision of the MUCC Executive Director, Kay Klo, and Dr. Tajdar from CCE.The positions are paid – USD 17 per hour for a 3 to 3.5 months project timeline. We anticipate 4-6 hours of work per week (*)Please send a 1-page cover letter and your resumé to Dr. Tajdaratajdar@syr.edu.In the cover letter please stipulate i) which of three project components you would like to be engaged in, ii) and, how you would execute the project. Deadline for applications is 15 August 2023.Shortlisted candidates will be contacted the third week of August 2023.Please don’t hesitate to reach out directly toatajdar@syr.eduif you have questions. We look forward to collaborating with you!(*) There is a process for hiring and we may need verify and ensure that MPA/MAIR students receiving financial aid to not get unintentionally penalized from their aid packages if/when hired for this position.#maxwell#syracuseuniversity#socialimpactjobs#socialinnovation#civicengagement#civicleadership #cce

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🌟Empowering Futures: Join Us in Educating and Nurturing Young Minds!🌟Dear Supporters and Change-Makers,At Pehchaan The Street School (Trust) , our cause is simple yet profound: we believe in educating children, empowering them to reach for the stars, and enabling them to learn beyond the confines of textbooks. We are passionate about creating a future where every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to shine and succeed.✅Why Should We Step Up for Them?1. Building Foundations: Education is the cornerstone of a prosperous society. By educating children, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future, not just for them but for our world.2. Empowering Potential: Every child has unique talents and potential waiting to be unleashed. By empowering them, we unlock possibilities, fostering future leaders, innovators, and compassionate individuals.3. Creating Global Citizens: Education opens minds and hearts. It fosters understanding, tolerance, and unity, shaping responsible global citizens who can tackle the challenges of our interconnected world.✅Benefits for Them and Us1.Empowering Children: Education equips children with knowledge, confidence, and life skills, enabling them to break the cycle of poverty and contribute meaningfully to society.2. Fulfillment and Gratitude: Witnessing a child's growth and seeing the impact of our efforts fills our hearts with fulfillment and gratitude, reminding us of the difference we can make.3. Strengthening Communities: Educated children become community pillars, driving positive change, and uplifting the entire community, fostering a cycle of empowerment.✅Their Feelings Towards Us:Children look up to us with awe, trust, and gratitude. To them, we are not just teachers but also mentors, role models, and beacons of hope. Our support gives them confidence, showing them that the world believes in their dreams.✅Ways You Can Help:1. Teaching: Volunteer your time to teach children, sharing your knowledge and expertise.2. Fundraising: Contribute to our cause by organizing fundraisers or donating to support our educational programs.3. Social Media Marketing: Help us spread the word by leveraging social media platforms to raise awareness about our initiatives and events.4. Donations: Your monetary donations directly support the education and well-being of underprivileged children.‼️Apply for InternshipsAre you passionate about making a difference? Consider applying for an internship with Pehchaan The Street School (Trust) . Interns play a crucial role in our mission, bringing fresh ideas and enthusiasm. To apply, visit our website or contact us directly. Together, let's create a future where every child's potential is realized.Join us in this noble journey of education, empowerment, and transformation. Together, we can light up the path to a brighter tomorrow for these children and for our world.

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🚀 We are excited to share our latest article on LinkedIn! 📚 In it, we explore the powerful impact of community engagement in amplifying scholarship opportunities. Whether it's volunteering, networking, or collaborating with peers, community involvement can significantly enhance your chances of academic success. Check out the full article below for insights and strategies to boost your scholarship odds! #CommunityEngagement #Scholarship #AcademicSuccess #academics #volunteer #volunteering #leadership #levelup#education#genz#campus#campuslife #changemakers #changemaker

Exploring the Impact: Education Management Organizations and Community Service OpportunitiesIn our rapidly evolving world, the role of education management organizations (EMOs) in shaping the educational landscape cannot be overstated. As we strive for educational excellence, it's important to recognize that EMOs not only focus on academic achievements but also play a significant role in fostering a sense of community and social responsibility. One such way they achieve this is by offering diverse opportunities for volunteer work and community service.Fostering Civic EngagementEMOs understand that education goes beyond the classroom and textbooks. Engaging students in volunteer work and community service encourages them to become active members of society. When students actively participate in service projects, they develop a deeper understanding of societal challenges and gain insights into the power of collective action. This experience not only enhances their sense of civic duty but also empowers them to become advocates for positive change.A Platform for Personal GrowthVolunteer work and community service offer students a unique platform for personal growth. These experiences often take students out of their comfort zones, presenting them with opportunities to develop leadership skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. Engaging in service projects alongside peers from diverse backgrounds enables students to build lasting connections and develop interpersonal skills that are essential in today's interconnected world.Inspirational Learning Beyond the ClassroomEducation is not confined to textbooks and classrooms. EMOs recognize the value of experiential learning, and volunteer work provides a real-world context for the concepts learned in school. Whether it's environmental conservation, community outreach, or supporting vulnerable populations, these experiences bring to life the lessons learned in the classroom, making education more tangible and relevant.A Win-Win PartnershipThe collaboration between EMOs and community service organizations is a win-win partnership. EMOs not only provide students with opportunities to contribute meaningfully to their communities but also bolster their own reputation by demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility. This symbiotic relationship not only benefits students but also strengthens the bonds between educational institutions and the communities they serve.How Can You Get Involved?For educators, parents, and students alike, it's important to explore the community service opportunities that EMOs offer. Engage with your educational institution to learn about ongoing initiatives, upcoming projects, and ways you can contribute. By participating in these initiatives, you're not only enriching your own educational journey but also contributing to the betterment of society.#EducationEMOs #CommunityService #SocialResponsibility #EducationBeyondClassroom #EmpoweringStudents

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8 Ways for High School Students to Spend Spring BreakSpring break provides opportunities for volunteering, #job shadowing and preparing for #college.Spring break can be a welcome time for #students to enjoy the warmer weather, hang out with friends and just relax. But while spring break gives students a happy hiatus from their regular routine, experts say students should also make an effort to pursue some productive #activities during that time.“Certainly high schoolers can sleep in a bit during break, spend some social time with friends and spend some time with family or going on a trip, but they should also set themselves a goal for that break period,” says Annie George-Puskar, assistant professor of curriculum and teaching atFordham Universityin New York.She says spring break offers an opportunity forhigh schoolstudents to begin learning how to manage their time when it's not managed for them, like it is during most of the school year. Here are some ways high school students can plan to spend spring break.Start Post-High School PlanningExperts suggest using spring break to researchcolleges, #scholarships and other post-high school plans.Make Your College ListUse your break tonarrow your college application list.“Think about what you want out of your university experience – educationally, socially and personally,” says HamiltonGregg, an education consultant and college counselor.Go on a College TourVolunteerVolunteering not only makes you feel good and helps you learn new skills, but it also looks good on your college application.Read a BookPrep for the ACT or SATShadow a ProfessionalSpring break can be a great time tojob shadowsomeone who works in a major or field that interests you. Whether it’s a lawyer at a local firm or an engineer, shadowing a professional can give you an up-close perspective on what it’s like – and you may even pick up a little hands-on experience.Practice Basic Life SkillsStudents can spend spring break getting more comfortable with basic life skills, from learning to #cook to taking public transportation to #banking.#springbreak #college #collegeadmissions #collegecounseling #read #lifeskills

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Southwest Florida workforce readiness improves while early education remains subpar, a report found.The FutureMakers Coalition, a group of business, nonprofit and civic leaders in Southwest Florida, is inching its way toward its three goals of transforming the region’s workforce, closing a higher education gap and reversing brain drain where the young people who are educated here leave to work somewhere else. And while its most recent comprehensive study, the 2023 Southwest Florida Educational and Workforce Outcomes Report, highlights some of that progress, it’s also a glimpse into some glaring weaknesses — notably in early and elementary school education. #southwestflorida #workforce #earlyeducation

WorkVentures are proud supporters of The Smith Family's Learning for Lifeeducation support program. Through our joined efforts, we are supporting students by bridging the digital divide.Digital exclusion is an issue faced by people across the country. The Australian Digital Inclusion Index2023 report "found that while the national index had increased by 2.1 points in two years, to 73.2, the digital divide between those in the highest and the lowest 20% of household incomes had increased from 26.5 points in 2021 to 28.8 points in 2023. The gap between those who did not complete secondary school and those with bachelor’s degrees was 23.6 points."To ensure that all young people are adequately equipped for educational success, laptops and connectivity are essential tools. We are honoured to support The Smith Family and look forward to seeing the impact of our contribution on the lives of students.https://lnkd.in/gmbqnSa5?

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INVITATION TO ATTEND: President's Advisory Commission Meeting on Tuesday, December 19The White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence and Economic Opportunity for Hispanics invites you to virtually attend the upcoming meeting of the President’s Advisory Commission on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity for Hispanics (Commission) on Tuesday, December 19th from 12-5 p.m. EST.  The Commission will hear presentations from federal and community leaders and continue their engagement in advancing the duties of the Commission. We will discuss and vote on recommendation proposals. Details of the meeting, including confirmed speakers, will be posted on our website: ed.gov/hispanicinitiative. To receive meeting updates and the link to view the Commission meeting, please register here by 5 p.m. EST on Monday, December 18th: https://cvent.me/OwYPNBIf you have written comments pertaining to the work of the Commission, please submit those comments in the registration field provided in the RSVP form or you may submit comments and attachments electronically to WhiteHouseHispanicInitiative@ed.gov with the subject line: “Written Comments: Public Comment.” Please include your name(s), title, organization, mailing address, email address, and telephone number in the email. About the Commission: In support of Executive Order 14045, the Commission’s duties are to advise the President, through the Secretary of Education, on matters pertaining to educational equity and economic opportunity for the Hispanic and Latino community in the following areas:  (i) what is needed for the development, implementation, and coordination of educational programs and initiatives at the U.S. Department of Education (Department) and other agencies to improve educational opportunities and outcomes for Hispanics and Latinos;  (ii) how to promote career pathways for in-demand jobs for Hispanic and Latino students, including registered apprenticeships, internships, fellowships, mentorships, and work-based learning initiatives;  (iii) ways to strengthen the capacity of institutions, such as Hispanic-serving Institutions, to equitably serve Hispanic and Latino students and increase the participation of Hispanic and Latino students, Hispanic-serving school districts, and the Hispanic community in the programs of the Department and other agencies;  (iv) how to increase public awareness of and generate solutions for the educational and training challenges and equity disparities that Hispanic and Latino students face and the causes of these challenges; and  (v) approaches to establish local and national partnerships with public, private, philanthropic, and nonprofit stakeholders to advance the mission and objectives of this order, consistent with applicable law.  #whitehouse #education Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

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