Fostering Connected School Communities: Creating Inclusive Pathways to Success

Designing Education

In this special episode of Designing Education, we're thrilled to welcome Krys Payne as our guest host. Krys is the Executive Director of the UChicago Network for College Success (NCS) and brings nearly 30 years of experience in education to her role. At NCS, Krys leads a team dedicated to equipping educators with evidence-based practices and research to positively impact key indicators that predict high school graduation and college success.

Krys is joined by Megan Hougard, Chief of College and Career Success for Chicago Public Schools (CPS). She plays a vital role in developing the district’s high school strategy. Her work ensures that CPS students have the necessary support to succeed beyond high school. Megan’s vision includes multiple postsecondary pathways, enabling students from every Chicago neighborhood to pursue careers aligned with their passions.

In this fourth episode of our third season, Krys and Megan will engage in a conversation about building school communities where students feel connected every day and explore how educators can create pathways to success that are inclusive and impactful. Join us for an insightful discussion that promises to inspire and inform educators and leaders alike.