JULY 2020: News You Can Use
StriveTogether:

About a year ago Graduate Strong formally became a member of the national "cradle to career" network of nearly 70 communities across 29 states and Washington D.C working to ensure every child has every chance to succeed because race, ethnicity, poverty and circumstance should not determine opportunity or outcome.

StriveTogether's theory of action provides progressive milestones rather than a prescription for change, which allows local context to guide the framework. The milestones inform necessary collaboration of cross-sector leaders from systems like education, housing, healthcare and more to get better results for youth and families.

StriveTogether has partnered with Equal Measure since 2015 to evaluate the impact of the guiding framework. By following the progress of 14 communities using the theory of action for three years, Equal Measure determined the StriveTogether framework is making a positive difference. The study provided insights and validated that communities embracing the theory of action are making measurable progress improving outcomes. Through an annual Civic Infrastructure Assessment, Graduate Strong is able to align our local efforts on the continuum within the theory of action as we reflect on our local progress.
Learn more about the StriveTogether Theory of Action and view the 2019 annual report highlighting how the Cradle to Career Network is proving change is possible in communities across the country. It tells the story of system changers, policy shapers and difference makers.
Interactive Instructional Library (Read Alouds):
Anti-Racist Work in Schools: Are You in it for the Long Haul?

"As an anti-bias anti-racist (ABAR) facilitator and educator-in-progress, I’ve had the opportunity to partner with public, charter, and independent schools across the United States and can tell you firsthand that there is no “one size fits all” approach to this work. There are, however, a number of things schools should consider as they create objectives for the short and long term future."
 
"To fully embrace ABAR education, schools must be willing to dive deep into their culture, policies, curriculum and the individual mindsets of all stakeholders. If you are truly dedicated to anti-racism, are you willing to let go of members of the community who are working against these goals?"
We Need You!

Graduate Strong has a "Future Bound" Facilitator Americorps Position Open:

AmeriCorps is a National Service Program that engages community members into volunteer service opportunities throughout the nation. Our local KCR AmeriCorps program supports a myriad of nonprofit community organizations throughout Kitsap County. AmeriCorps team members serve full-time at these host sites, completing 1700 hours of service. 

The KCR-AmeriCorps Member application process is now open! Members will serve the 11 months service term, starting September 1, 2020. You can begin the application process by visiting the KCR office located 845 8th Street, Bremerton, WA. 98337 or by using the links to download and complete the Questionnaire and the Application .

Office hours for drop off are 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Monday – Friday. For more information, please call the KCR office at (360) 473-2015. Or you may email the AmeriCorps team for further information.
From America's Promise Alliance: The State of Young People during COVID-19

The ongoing COVID-19 public health crisis looms large, creating deep and disparate consequences for young people and their families. Our nationally representative survey of high school youth reveals their perceptions of the pandemic’s impact on their learning and their lives. The findings suggest that students are experiencing a collective trauma, and that they and their families would benefit from immediate and ongoing support.
Navigating Kitsap's Future Together:

"Recently, the state has passed one of the most progressive financial aid grant programs in the country, the Washington College Grant. This means there is now more financial aid available for more students in more income brackets, for more types of education around Washington. The cap of who can receive funding has been raised to the median family income of $97K for a family of four, meaning that meaning that anyone at that level or below is now eligible to receive grant money as part of their financial aid package."

Through a pilot project with Kitsap Regional Library and Washington College Access Network, Graduate Strong piloted the "Navigator" concept to increase our local capacity for financial aid application assistance. Want to connect with a Navigator? Visit www.graduatestrong.org .
Connecting and Supporting our Early Learning Partners:

Looking for resources to learn more about early learning challenges, celebrations, issues, advocacy, etc.? Check out and subscribe to some of these sites:







Make the World Better by EL Education:

This music video was composed, rehearsed, and performed by EL Education students during the covid19 crisis while in physical isolation. It was made in two weeks in order to celebrate Better World Day, a day on which EL Education students contribute to their communities.