As part of both our Personalized Learning Model and our Community Hub work, Distinctive Schools is deeply committed to providing all learners with what they need, when they need it. On Friday, Distinctive Schools brought together principals, students, and influential community leaders from Chicago's South Side to discuss how we can strengthen our communities through partnership together. The CICS Longwood Library was absolutely buzzing with energy, as faith leaders, community members, and educators gathered to build stronger relationships and foster meaningful partnerships.
The morning began with a warm welcome as attendees were personally greeted by CICS Longwood students, and enjoyed breakfast in community with one another. Distinctive Schools Principals and Community School Coordinators from CICS Lloyd Bond, CICS Loomis, CICS Longwood, and CICS Prairie shared perspectives, and Alderman Mosley highlighted the importance of partnership and the power of our collective. Distinctive Schools National Board Member, Mr. Jim Flavin, MDiv, inspired the room to think about ways we can partner, and how to keep our work connected in support of stronger outcomes across the city.
Conversation focused on exploring new ways to collaborate, from nurturing lasting partnerships to creating opportunities for ongoing support. Together, we discussed the foundation for a shared vision for our community's youth. Students from CICS Longwood Elementary and CICS Longwood High School shared what makes their school unique, and how their teachers make them feel seen and valued. Their voices brought the mission of Distinctive Schools to life, providing a perfect example of the alignment between our work and that of the community's faith leaders.
We’re so grateful to everyone who made time to prioritize this important work. A special thank you to our Principals and Community School Coordinators for their ongoing dedication to our students and communities. We look forward to continuing the conversation, and creating a network of support that will help our students thrive for years to come. Thank you for being such an essential part of the Distinctive Schools mission.
Stay tuned for additional partnership information, and if you have ideas for collaboration or partnership opportunities with our schools, reach out to Karin Breo, Director of Partnership for Distinctive Schools.