Bill > CER26-0092

This resolution recognizes and celebrates Higher Achievement, a nonprofit organization founded in 1975 by educator Greg Gannon in Washington, D.C., on its 50th anniversary of serving middle school students. The resolution highlights the organization's mission to expand academic opportunities for underserved youth, its expansion to multiple cities including the DC Metro area, Baltimore, and Richmond, and its comprehensive educational model that includes afterschool programming, academic enrichment, homework support, and high school placement guidance. The document emphasizes Higher Achievement's core values of scholar-centricity, racial equity, voice and inclusion, community power, and striving for greatness. It notes the organization's significant impact, including two randomized controlled trials demonstrating academic gains, an impressive 95% high school graduation rate for its scholars, and a 90% sense of belonging among participants. The resolution also acknowledges that Higher Achievement has supported tens of thousands of young people over five decades, many of whom have gone on to make meaningful contributions in various professional fields. The Council of the District of Columbia formally recognizes and honors Higher Achievement for its transformative work in empowering young people across multiple regions.

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/CER26-0092