Status quos areMADE TO BE BROKEN– Ray Davis
Testimonials
Our collaboration with Colorado Youth for a Change has been pivotal in creating a comprehensive plan for dropout re-engagement, prevention, intervention and ongoing support. This partnership with Colorado Youth for a Change has allowed us to demonstrate measurable success in a short period of time."
We began our work with CYC at one of our high schools and quickly expanded the work to one of our alternative schools. The work has been amazing! Without reservation, I can say that it has been the comprehensive approach taken by CYC that has made all the difference."
case studies
Dropout Outreach and Recovery Program:
CYC helped 588 youth who had either dropped out of school or were on the verge of dropping out to re-enroll or re-engage in school, and 70% of those reenrolled for the statewide October Count ended the year with a positive outcome: graduation, continued enrollment, or a transfer to another educational program. These recovery efforts account for approximately $4 million in retained or recovered Per Pupil Operating Revenue for school districts.
Dropout Intervention Program:
CYC served 656 students across seven schools through this unique program that combines academic monitoring, skill-building training, tutoring, and advocacy to students showing early warning signs of dropping out. Students reduced course failure by 69% over the year.
New School/Program Design and Creation:
Colorado Youth for a Change supported five school districts in evaluating the continuum of alternative options in place and helped to create new options for students struggling in traditional schools through these collaborations.
In partnership with Aurora Public Schools since 2009, CYC oversees Futures Academy, which combines an intensive academic program with post-secondary transition services for students who are significantly behind in credits for their age. In addition to dropout recovery and transition services for nearly 200 students in 2010-2011, Futures Academy also accomplished the following:
- Enrolled 17 students at Pickens Technical College and supported them in earning industry certifications and credentials.
- Enrolled 14 students in credit bearing courses at the Community College of Aurora and supported them in making progress towards earning an Associate's Degree.
- Supported 14 students in completing the GED.
Stories
After becoming a father nearly three years ago, Jose dropped out of school multiple times as he struggled to balance work, school, and family. Jose quickly discovered that the most promising jobs required a high school diploma: "I want to finish (high school) so I can get a job. Everywhere you apply, they ask for a high school diploma." CYC reached out to Jose and connected him with the RAMP program through the Arapahoe Ridge Campus in Boulder that allowed him to catch up on high school credits. The flexibility of the program coupled with the extra support provided by CYC's Christen helped him to graduate with his high school diploma at age 20.
Roslyn met CYC staff after moving into a transitional living program for homeless youth. After years of academic and residential instability as a result of foster care, Roslyn felt frustrated. She knew that she wanted to complete her high school diploma but had not found success in a variety of high schools. Together with CYC staff, Roslyn made a list of her strengths, challenges, and desires within a school. Different options were explored and Roslyn enrolled in West Career Academy. The flexible hours coupled with the smaller classes and compassionate teachers helped her to realize her dream and earn her high school diploma. She is now enrolled in culinary arts classes and is receiving assistance in applying to Johnson & Wales University. Roslyn still checks in with CYC staff and hopes to become a pastry chef. She serves as a great example of resiliency, strength, and determination.
