Resources for Families: Navigating the Education System
09/29/2023
In today's digital age, a world of educational resources is right at our fingertips, so whether you're a seasoned parent or new to navigating this ever-evolving educational landscape, in this blog post, we'll explore various resources and strategies tailored to help parents (like you) make informed decisions, advocate for your children, determine the right post-secondary plans and find sustainable ways to engage with your child's mental well-being.
You will find resources categorized within three fundamental pillars that form the bedrock of our work: leadership development, mental well-being, and career development.
“Education Is The Passport To The Future, For Tomorrow Belongs To Those Who Prepare For It Today.”
Leadership Development
Leaders Eat Last - Simon Sinek
Discusses the qualities of effective leaders and how they can create a positive work or school environment.
Discusses how understanding your "Why" is crucial for inspiring others, building loyal relationships, and achieving long-term success.
Explores the concept of brave leadership. Brown argues that leadership is not about titles or power but about the willingness to step up, be vulnerable, and lead with courage.
Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund
Provides scholarship assistance and educational support to Chicago students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) Scholarships
The CHA offers scholarships to residents of CHA properties pursuing higher education.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The official website for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid is essential for applying for federal financial aid for college.
Illinois Grants
Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) Scholarships
ISAC administers several state-funded scholarships and grants for Illinois students.
One-on-One Mentoring
Counselors at your high school are a great resource to help you navigate the college-going process. In addition to your high school's support, ISACorps members in your region can provide one-on-one support for you and your family. The ISACorps is made up of recent college graduates who are often assigned to work in the communities they came from—so they have the college-navigating experience and the local know-how to support students within the community.
2.MentalWell-Being
Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance - by Angela Duckworth:
Examines the importance of grit (passion and perseverance) in achieving long-term goals.
Provides resources and programs to support the emotional well-being of teens and young adults as they transition to adulthood.
Offers crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth, including a helpline, chat, and resources.
In the CASEL framework, partners work together to define challenges, develop shared goals, and design plans to promote SEL. This requires intentional relationship-building and genuine appreciation for the perspectives and skills that families bring. When schools and families work together, they can build strong connections to ensure that SEL is taught in culturally responsive ways that celebrate the assets, identities, and diversity students bring to school, making SEL more impact and lasting.
3.CareerDevelopment
What Color Is Your Parachute? by Richard N. Bolles
A classic guide to career planning and job searching.
Provides information on scholarships, internships, conferences, and other opportunities for young people.
Prior to completing the Lion’s Pride mentorship program, alumni workshops are hosted frequently to provide students with additional career resources and access.
