Highland Region Pathways Named Success Network Leadership Community

The Success Network Organizers are thrilled to welcome Highland Region Pathways to Success as our newest Leadership Community. The regional team, led by Highland Community College, ROE 8, and Northwest Illinois Economic Development, brings expertise in employer engagement, developing career pathways, postsecondary partnerships, and dual credit programs, and we look forward to sharing their expertise with communities […]

A Leader to Learn From

We’re excited to share that Dr. Laz Lopez of High School District 214, which is part of NECSS, was recognized by EdWeek for his work to advance pathways. >> Read the article

Data Deep Dive: January 23, 2025

At the Success Network Policy Committee’s annual data deep dive on January 23, 2025, we explored a range of college and career readiness and success metrics from Illinois data resources and beyond.

Policy Committee Meeting: December 11, 2024

The Success Network Policy Committee’s 2024 Q4 meeting included presentations on labor market information for use in college and career pathways, Illinois Report Card data, and career exploration for middle school students.

Southern Illinois Region

In October, SI NOW’s education and workforce task force partnered with the Success Network to host an education and workforce asset mapping meeting focused on the Southern Illinois region. This convening highlighted key challenges, desired outcomes, scaling needs, and priorities for advancing career pathways for Southern Illinois students. Nearly 30 stakeholders representing SI Now’s 17-county footprint attended […]

Rockford Public Schools to Remodel Building for Career Education Center

Rockford Public Schools plans to renovate the home of Rock Valley College’s automotive and collision repair classes near Jefferson High School to serve as a hub for career-centered education ranging from culinary courses to CNC machining for all four high schools. >> Read the Rock River Current news story

College and Career Ready! Night Draws Nearly 700 attendees

District 214’s College and Career Ready! Night drew nearly 700 attendees! This event showcased the many career pathway opportunities available in District 214, including specialized coursework, early college credit options, and hands-on work-based learning experiences. All of these are designed to help students explore and shape their future. View the event recordings:

Students Help Build Houses While Gaining Skills

District 211 high school students are getting a unique opportunity to learn the trades firsthand by building houses in a new subdivision in Schaumburg. ABC7 Chicago featured the program as a Building a Better Chicago segment. >> Watch the video and read the story

Sauk Valley Community College Completes Greenhouse, Grows Dual Credit

As part of its efforts to expand its agriculture program and strengthen community partnerships, Sauk Valley Community College (SVCC) recently completed the construction of a 6,000-square-foot greenhouse. This new facility will enhance the horticulture curriculum while supporting industry and community partners in research and projects. With 609 students enrolled this fall, SVCC continues to experience […]