Inspirations for Educators

See what schools and educators are doing to help more kids succeed and go to college. Know of other examples? Send us a note to share them.


3 children in classCincinnati School District Raises High School Graduation Rates for All

The high school graduation rate for the Cincinnati Public Schools in 2000 was 51% — 59% for white students and 47% for African-American students. A comprehensive strategy helped eliminate this gap and improve overall graduate rates to above 75%. African-American students now graduate at about the same rate as white students. College attendance by graduates has also increased, along with college readiness and retention. Read the case study (PDF).


Titilayo Bediako The Only Way to Change Is If We All Come Together

Titilayo Bediako is working to improve the academic performance of African American students by creating "black excellence." Continue reading about Bediako's We Win Institute


James LewisIn History Class, a Young Teacher "Pulls Students Back to Today"

In James Lewis's history classes, students always feel welcome and engaged and they respond in a positive way. "It's rewarding when you challenge students and they step up." Continue reading about Lewis


Short Takes

  • Rochester schools tackle complex education achievement problems
    Rochester is dealing with two kinds of achievement gaps, one made up of poor, minority kids, and another made up of white middle class kids. The kids who fall into either gap felt teachers had low expectations for them... Now, expectations are being raised.