This summer, a new CPS program called AA+ addressed the needs of 400 of the district’s most at-risk students—overage CPS sixth- and seventh-grade students who will enroll in CPS Achievement Academies this fall. The goal was to help these students get back on track toward on-time graduation.

AA+ took place at each of the eight CPS Achievement Academies: CVCA, Crane, Clemente, Fenger, Phillips, Robeson, Tilden and Senn. The 4-week program ran parallel to Freshman Connection, from June 30 to July 25.

Students who are over the age of 15 at entry to high school historically have a five-year graduation rate of 27 percent. AA+ provided summer programs for these 400 students, support as they transition to the Achievement Academies, and additional support during their freshman year. AA+ is administered by the CPS Department of Graduation Pathways.