Every year, Mikva’s Mayoral Youth Commission addresses a different issue that impacts young people across Chicago. This year, the 20 young people who make up the Commission asked the question, “How might the City of Chicago support and prepare all students for post-high school success?” in light of Learn.Plan.Succeed., a new initiative that includes a new graduation requirement for Chicago Public School students.
We met with different community groups and stakeholders to better understand the barriers and opportunities that young people face when planning for their next steps after high school. We explored different pathways available to students ranging from college, job placement, gap year programs, military enlistment, and trades or apprenticeships. You can learn more about our summer research process here.
In our final report, we outlined six recommendations that the City and other youth-facing services could apply to make sure that all students would have the supports they need to be successful after high school. After meeting with the Mayor, Chancellor Juan Salgado of City Colleges, and Alan Mather from the Office College and Career Success at CPS some steps we’ve taken to take action on these recommendations so far:
- Feedback for important stakeholders: MYC students are leading surveys and focus groups with parents, students, and counselors to learn their needs, challenges, and input as Learn.Plan.Succeed is developed.
- Informational video: MYC is working with the Office of College and Career Success at CPS to create a fun and educational video to make sure people are informed and aware of the new policy and its impacts.
There’s more to come! Check in to see what other projects we have underway in the coming year.