Chicago, IL

Belmont-Cragin Elementary School’s personalized learning journey: from students to leaders

In partnership with LEAP Innovations, Belmont-Cragin has transformed its school to a personalized learning model, engaging the entire community to reframe the design and experience of its school

When Principal Stacy Stewart took over as principal eight years ago, Belmont-Cragin Elementary was due for a transformation. Students and staff faced a number of challenges, and the surrounding Belmont-Cragin community had no role in the learning environment or stake in school outcomes. Over the ...

Personalized learning in practice: an evaluation of breakthrough schools in Chicago

A University of Wisconsin report details the key implementation insights from a cohort of LEAP schools undergoing their first year of transformation to personalized learning

As personalized learning gains momentum across the United States, the need for implementation research has never been greater. As part of the solution, the University of Wisconsin’s Wisconsin Evaluation Collaborative, conducted a rigorous study of the LEAP approach to personalized learning -- Per...

34 Kids, 34 Ways: How Steve McWade delivers on his calling with personalized learning

Joseph Lovett Elementary School Fifth Grade teacher Steve McWade has strengthened and transformed his practice through relationship-building and deep understanding

With more than 18 years of teaching experience, Steve McWade has always seen trust and human connection as the foundation of powerful learning experiences. In this way, personalized learning didn’t introduce Steve to something new, but instead just made him better at what he was already doing. Wo...

Illuminating pathways: energizing opportunities

An innovative program within the Chicago Learning Exchange is Illuminating Pathways: Energizing Opportunities project that highlights learning pathways to trade careers.

Energizing Opportunities is an innovative summer “learn and earn” employment program providing teens with paid six-week internships in a hands-on training program that provides foundational skills needed for entry to more advanced Overhead Electrical Line Worker training at City Colleges of Chica...