For over 40 years, CISE’s primary focus has been on grade schools. However, the Vision 2021 & Beyond initiative expanded CISE’s mission to include the vital “bookends” of education: preschool and high school. Under the leadership of Phil McHugh, CISE welcomed Mari Thomas, Career Navigator and Workforce Intermediary, and Mike Kennedy, Director of Strategic Initiatives and High School Scholarship Programs. Together, they began assessing high school enrollment, the impact of financial scholarships, and the educational needs of students before, during, and after high school.

Since October 2023, Mike has been exploring the most effective ways to holistically support the growing number of CISE-supported eighth graders transitioning to partner Catholic high schools. Since 2021, the number of eighth graders matriculating to Catholic high schools has increased by an average of 40 new students each academic year. As of fall 2024, 494 CISE-supported students are enrolled in Catholic high schools, with projections exceeding 500 by 2025.

High school enrollment growth is just one part of the picture. With increased enrollment comes a greater need for wrap-around support, ensuring that all CISE-supported high school students have the resources they need to thrive. Data from CISE-supported elementary schools show that students benefit significantly from a wide range of academic, social, and emotional resources—essential elements for their growth. As these students transition to high school, the need for continued educational and social-emotional support remains crucial to their success.

CISE-partner high schools have responded by enhancing their support structures to help students not just attend but also graduate. However, the rising cost and staffing demands are beginning to exceed the schools’ capacity. Through thoughtful discussions, Mike has gained deeper insights, initiating conversations on how best to address these challenges and secure financial support for the holistic needs of both the students and the partner schools.

While Mike has focused on high school matriculation and financial needs, Mari Thomas has been examining the broader educational landscape, particularly the pathways and resources necessary to ensure CISE graduates are life-ready. A Career and Technical Education (CTE) Feasibility Study, launched in the summer of 2023, revealed that while the needs of CISE students have evolved, the educational offerings at many Catholic high schools have not. This study highlighted the importance of alternative educational programs.

In response, Mari has cultivated partnerships with high schools, post-secondary institutions, business leaders, and industry partners, while also securing support from state-level policy advocates. Her efforts are paving the way for enhanced CTE “experienceships,” expanding the educational opportunities available to CISE students as they prepare for life after graduation. This innovative approach is part of CISE’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the educational continuum, equipping students for successful careers, life fulfillment, and, most importantly, a path out of poverty.

Together, Mari’s efforts to expand educational programming and Mike’s work to build financial sustainability are laying the groundwork for strategic initiatives that will not only help CISE students enter Catholic high schools but also ensure they graduate prepared for the next phase of their lives—whether that’s college, a career, or enlistment.