Blogs

This year marked the 19th annual class of Innovators at Purdue University Northwest. Coates Inc was awarded for the innovation of their College and Career Mobile (CCM). We are providing college and career services that support the school community and meet students where they are! The College  and Career Mobile (CCM). Northwest Indiana students face significant  challenges when it comes to determining solid post-high school career  options due to high student-to-counselor ratios and limited college and  career support. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated these  issues, with fewer students attending college and a greater need for  guidance during the transitional process. In addition, middle school  students are missing out on the opportunity to apply for the 21st  Century Scholars that

This summer we celebrate the launch of the Coates Mobile College and Career Office. The Mobile Bus provides educational opportunities and career guidance to students throughout our community. At Coates Inc we’re embarking on a journey to empower students with the tools and knowledge they need to shape their futures and reach their full potential. The Coates Mobile Resource Center has dedicated professionals ready to provide personalized support, whether it’s helping middle school students transition to high school or assisting high school students with college admissions and financial aid applications. The launch of this mobile office marks a significant step in our commitment to educational equity, ensuring that every student, regardless of their background or location, has access to valuable

At 21st Century High School, the JumpStart Program has proven to be a resounding success since its inception in 2020. This transformative initiative, led by Coates Inc., has had a profound impact on over 75 students, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge needed for college and career readiness. Thanks to the generous support of the Illinois State Department of Education Learning Loss Grant for the past two years and now, The Ichigo Foundation for the next two years, the program has thrived, providing vital early college and career services to the school’s 9th and 10th graders. The JumpStart Program focuses on three key areas: college exploration, career exploration, and community service. Through college visits, admissions panels, career fairs, and

Catisha Toney has dedicated her career to working for underrepresented youth in the community. As president and CEO of COATES Inc., Toney says she strives to provide students with opportunities many adults didn’t have or wish they had in their youth. “I get to provide opportunities to students who are marginalized and don’t get the same opportunities because of where they live or the unleveled platform of exposure and engagement to college and career opportunities,” she said. “I get to meet young people where they are and make an impact in a way that can change their post-high school trajectory.” The stakes are high and the need is great for helping every young person succeed, she says, and Toney is

Coates Inc. Founder and Executive Director Catisha Toney will join 4.0 Schools 2022 Tiny Fellowship. 141 leaders with early-stage ideas reimagining education have been selected to spend 4 months learning how to plan, run, and evaluate a program. Catisha will partner with others in Gary Indiana to research career opportunities for youth in healthcare, trades and technology that include job shadowing and internships. If you’d like to get involved or know someone who might have an interest, send us a note – we’d love to chat.