CAGC's Higher Education partner is Concordia University of Wisconsin. An added bonus with the Closing the Achievement Gap professional development opportunities is that valuable graduate credit is offered through Concordia University with successful completion of workshops, seminars and symposiums.
The African American Youth Initiative (AAYI) is celebrating an exciting milestone this year as 23
The African American Youth Initiative (AAYI) is celebrating an exciting milestone this year as 23 students have earned Leadership in Training (LIT) recognition after completing the program for four consecutive years.
To qualify, students must participate in AAYI all four years of high school, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to personal growth, leadership, and academic success. In recognition of their dedication, each student receives a stipend for their commitment and leadership throughout the program.
Having 23 LIT students is a remarkable achievement and reflects the continued impact of AAYI and the work of the CAGC. It is also a testament to the program's outstanding student retention. More families are making AAYI a priority each summer, recognizing it as an investment in their student's future rather than simply another summer opportunity.
Congratulations to this year's LIT students for their dedication, perseverance, and leadership. Their commitment serves as an inspiration for future AAYI participants.
Next week, students from across the region will come together for the African American Youth
Next week, students from across the region will come together for the African American Youth Initiative (AAYI), taking place July 14-17, 2026, at Concordia University in Mequon.
The AAYI is a unique summer experience designed to inspire academic excellence, build leadership skills, and foster personal growth among young African American men and women. Through engaging workshops, motivational speakers, and interactive activities, participants are encouraged to strengthen their confidence, develop meaningful connections, and prepare for future success.
he program's mission is to empower African American youth by providing the tools, resources, and support needed to excel academically throughout their K-12 journey while building a strong foundation for college and career readiness.
Students will spend four days learning from educators, professionals, and mentors while participating in experiences that encourage leadership, collaboration, and goal setting. Along the way, they will connect with peers from other school districts, creating relationships that extend beyond the program itself.
Participation in the AAYI begins with a recommendation from a student's school district. Incoming ninth-grade students are invited through their district, while returning participants have the opportunity to continue their journey by attending future AAYI programs.
As this year's event begins next week, we wish all participating students a rewarding and memorable experience. We look forward to seeing the knowledge, confidence, and leadership they bring back to their schools and communities.
Curious about what’s happening at the CAGC? Stay in the loop by checking out the agendas and
Curious about what’s happening at the CAGC? Stay in the loop by checking out the agendas and minutes from our monthly meetings! Stay informed about key decisions, updates on professional development opportunities, AAYI, and other exciting learning opportunities.
Members of the Closing the Achievement Gap Consortium (CAGC) have named Dr. Sue Savaglio-Jarvis the next President of the consortium effective July 1, 2019. Dr. Savaglio-Jarvis currently serves as the Superintendent of Kenosha Unified School District.
BY: KALI THIEL, CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY AFFAIRS April 19, 2018. Editor's note: This story first appeared in the spring 2018 issue of the Concordian, the official magazine of Concordia University Wisconsin.
The CAGC is partnering with CESA #1 and SPAMM to host an annual Teacher Recruitment Fair on April 7, 2018. Join us at Shorewood High School for a great opportunity to network face-to-face with school representatives in advance of the 2018-19 hiring season!
CAGC leaders, Phillip Ertl, Monica Kelsey-Brown, Elliott Moeser and Larry Smalley, will present in Nashville, Tennessee on Saturday February 17, 2018. Presentation Title: Cooperation, Collaboration and Coordination in the Pursuit of Equity.
Consortium member, Matthew Joynt will present at the 2018 Wisconsin State ACT Organization Conference on Tuesday, February 13, 2018. Presentation Title: EDUCATION FOR ALL!
BY: KALI THIEL, UNIVERSITY AFFAIRS June 23, 2017. Concordia University Wisconsin?s School of Education honored the outgoing superintendent of Mequon-Thiensville schools yesterday for his ongoing partnership with Concordia, specifically its efforts to support marginalized and low-achieving students.
The Closing the Achievement Gap Consortium has recently formed a partnership with the State of Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (hereinafter known as DCF). The Closing the Achievement Gap Consortium (hereinafter known as CAGC) and DCF share a common purpose of seeking to enrich the lives of youth in Southeastern Wisconsin through ensuring they are safe and actively engaged in their community. To that end, this summer, DCF and CAGC will work together to provide programming to over 160 African American males through the 3rd annual African American Male Initiative Summer Institute (hereinafter known as AAMI SI). Visit the above link to learn more.
Members of the Closing the Achievement Gap Consortium have named Mr. Larry Smalley the next President of the consortium effective July 1, 2017. Mr. Smalley is the current Superintendent of Schools of the Glendale-River Hills School District. Mr. Smalley is one of the five founding Superintendents of the Closing the Achievement Gap Consortium. Mr. Smalley's vision of ensuring equity in educational attainment for all students has helped him lead his school district for the past decade. Visit the above link to learn more.
