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Loyola University Chicago’s School of Education has been selected by the University of Pennsylvania’s Netter Center for Community Partnerships (Netter Center) as the nation’s seventh regional training center for University-Assisted Community Schools (UACS). The three-year award recognizes Loyola’s leadership in community school partnerships and establishes the University as the regional hub for advancing UACS throughout Illinois and Wisconsin.
Supported by a $150,000 award ($50,000 annually for three years), the regional training center will provide professional development, technical assistance, coaching, research, networking opportunities, and leadership development for universities, school districts, educators, and community organizations committed to expanding high-quality community schools.
The designation places Loyola among a select group of universities nationwide recognized for advancing the UACS model—a nationally recognized approach that leverages the resources of higher education institutions to support public schools as neighborhood centers for learning, health, family engagement, and community development. Through this partnership, Loyola and the Netter Center will work together to advance the role of UACS nationally.
The initiative will build on Loyola’s extensive work supporting Sustainable Community Schools and UACS throughout Chicago. It will help colleges and universities develop new community school partnerships, strengthen existing collaborations, and expand evidence-based practices that improve educational opportunities and outcomes for children and families.
The regional training center designation reflects Loyola’s longstanding work with Chicago Public Schools and local communities through initiatives such as Sustainable Community Schools. Through these partnerships, Loyola works alongside school leaders and community organizations to strengthen student support systems, expand resources, and advance community-centered approaches to education.
Through the regional training center, Loyola will:
- Provide training and coaching for university and school leaders implementing community school strategies.
- Develop professional learning opportunities for Community Resource Coordinators and other practitioners.
- Convene regional networks of higher education institutions, school districts, and community partners.
- Support research and evaluation to strengthen community school practice.
- Foster collaboration across Illinois and Wisconsin to expand sustainable UACS.
The award reflects the growing national movement to position higher education institutions as anchor partners in strengthening public education and neighborhood well-being. Loyola’s Regional Training Center will contribute to the national UACS Network coordinated by the Netter Center.
“Our vision is to create a regional network where universities learn from one another, share innovative practices, and work alongside schools and communities to create lasting educational opportunity,” said Mitch Hendrickson, director of school and community partnerships in the School of Education. “This award allows us to build on the incredible work already happening throughout our region while helping new partnerships emerge and flourish.”
Loyola’s regional training center will begin operations during the 2026–27 academic year and serve institutions and partners throughout Illinois and Wisconsin through June 2029.
