Their plan is designed to meet the economic challenges of getting a quality education today and in the future, through a multi-stage eight-point program. The eight points are as follows:
– Program portfolio reviews to increase the value of associate degree credentials and transfers to higher degree programs
– Improving adult education programs and transfers into college credit courses
– Student support
– Remediation
– Faculty and staff development
– Operational excellence
– Technology and strategic capital planning and investments
– External advisory councils will include task forces consisting of members from the business, civic, and educational communities as well as the Joyce Foundation and The Black Star Project
The initiative has already received generous support from local and national foundations including the Searle Fund at Chicago Community and Trust, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Joyce Foundation. Technology upgrades and a pilot program with the Chicago public schools are also in the works.
Mayor Daley spoke of turning the seven city colleges into a world class educational institution saying “no institution in Chicago is better positioned than the City Colleges of Chicago to become the economic engine for job preparation and a skilled workforce.”
The overhaul will hopefully bring inspiration to a city where the urban community is in crisis. –bernard williams
