Agreement extends commitment at Akron Early College, Ellet CLC, and NIHF STEM
Akron Public Schools (APS) announced yesterday a three-year renewal of the sister university agreement between The University of Akron (UA) and Akron Public Schools. UA will continue to serve as a sister university to Ellet CLC, NIHF STEM High School, and Akron Early College.
As a sister university, UA works closely with the schools and teachers to: develop classroom lessons that have integrated, career-themed content; design and present problem-based learning opportunities that incorporate thought-provoking, real-world problem-solving activities, and help make connections to college and career readiness experiences. UA will continue to provide student and parent workshops and assistance on the college admission process and FAFSA completion.
Akron Public Schools Superintendent Christine Fowler Mack sees great promise in the continuation of this relationship. “The University of Akron has a long-standing commitment to Akron Public Schools,” she said, “and the continuity of the university’s impression and influence exposes our students to higher education and helps them plan for the future. We look forward to our continued work with UA.”
“The University of Akron is pleased to renew and grow our partnership with the College & Career Academies,” said John Wiencek, executive vice president and provost. “The faculty and staff who have worked with our sister schools over the past three years have shown leadership and creativity, especially last year in a primarily remote environment. I’m proud of the way our team has stepped up to support APS students as they explore all of their options after high school graduation.”
The collaboration between Akron Public Schools and The University of Akron was formed with the help of United Way of Summit & Medina. United Way serves as a link between the College and Career Academies of Akron and local businesses to provide hands-on learning opportunities for students and to strengthen the education to employment pipeline in Summit County.
“The University of Akron’s mission is to educate the future leaders and professionals of our community,” said Jim Mullen, president and CEO of United Way of Summit & Medina. “By partnering with the College & Career Academies of Akron, UA is demonstrating that that mission begins even before students leave high school. United Way is proud to work with the University of Akron to ensure high school graduates are ready to move on to college or the career of their choice.”
APS was designated a Ford Next Generation Learning Community in May 2017. Ford Motor Company Fund, the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company, is supporting the transformation of public high schools into career-themed academies to better prepare students for college and professional success in today's competitive global economy. College & Career Academies of Akron are supported by the following key strategic partners: GAR Foundation, United Way of Summit & Medina, ConxusNEO, Summit Education Initiative, and Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce.