Since 2006, we have walked this journey, hand-in- hand with more than 45 school districts across the nation, corporate partners, policy makers, government, local and national funders and donors. Through your support, each of you has affirmed the transformative power of a Linked Learning education.

In this rapidly changing environment of a global and digital world —a world filled with promise for improving human lives, a world in which talent recognizes no boundaries, a world in which creativity and curiosity will fuel the future—now, more than ever, Linked Learning is necessary and relevant.

We at ConnectED want to extend our sincerest appreciation to our supporters who are helping to shape the future of education in ways that make a powerful and positive difference for students. Thank you to everyone who made a gift, for giving to a mission that awakens the full potential of our public schools, their teachers, and our student.

ConnectED Awarded Two New Grants to Support Student Success

ConnectED is pleased to announce recent foundation awards that each support and expand on our work in communities that embrace and support Linked Learning and college and career pathways. Our Great Lakes College and Career Pathways Partnership received an award in December 2017, from The Joyce Foundation. ConnectED,in partnership with Education Systems Center of Northern Illinois University and Jobs for the Future, helps lead the Initiative, which is committed to building high-quality college and career pathways that equip students – particularly historically marginalized students or underrepresented groups – to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

Also in December, the Barr Foundation awarded ConnectED a two-year grant to support Linked Learning initiatives in Massachusetts, with specific focus and support for Holyoke School District and Boston Public Schools. Holyoke and Boston are deeply engaged in improving student outcomes through the four pillars of Linked Learning: rigorous and relevant academics, integrated technical education, work-based learning and personalized student supports. Both Holyoke and Boston share the ultimate goal of improving a range of college and career outcomes for historically marginalized students through the implementation of Linked Learning.