From Classroom to Community:  A Journey of Success with Andrea Meyer

“My background is in education. I graduated from Western Michigan University, (Go Broncos!) with a degree in elementary education. My specialties were in language arts and science, and I taught for 10 years,” Andrea Meyer recalls. Her commitment to education was evident, but after teaching students between 2nd-8th grade from Detroit to Los Angeles, she felt a growing desire to work beyond the classroom walls, seeking to engage the community more deeply.

The Birth of the Center for Success Network

Andrea’s pivotal moment came when she connected with a community member passionate about youth literacy and enrichment. This led to the creation of a tutoring program, laying the foundation for what would become the Center for Success Network. Starting with just six kids and a handful of volunteers, Andrea’s vision expanded rapidly.

“I met with different nonprofits in Detroit and connected with Brilliant Detroit. Together, we wrote a proposal to the Skillman Foundation and successfully launched programs at multiple sites,” Andrea explains. This collaboration marked the beginning of a significant expansion, transforming the Center for Success Network into a vital resource for elementary students in Detroit and Pontiac.

The Center for Success Network’s mission is to unite community and literacy to empower students on their educational journey. Their vision emphasizes a connected community of support around students, aiming to ignite a passion for learning and ensure that every child can unlock their full potential through literacy.

“We believe that education is not something that happens only in the classroom or only in the household. It’s all interconnected,” Andrea states. The Center’s approach involves building supportive relationships around students and families, focusing on individualized learning experiences that cater to each child’s unique interests and needs.

The Center for Success Network has seen remarkable achievements over the years. Their expansion into multiple sites and partnerships with organizations like Brilliant Detroit and Downtown Boxing Gym have allowed them to serve a broader community. Their impact is evident in the consistent gains in literacy skills among their students.

“Our summer goals are to keep kids at least where they’re at, avoiding any summer slide. About 75% of our kids typically make gains, which is pretty amazing,” Andrea notes. The organization also places a strong emphasis on attendance, aiming for a 90% attendance rate, and working closely with families to address any barriers.

The Role of Mentorship

Mentorship is the cornerstone of the Center for Success Network’s work. Mentors provide personalized support, fostering a sense of importance and confidence in the students. This relationship goes beyond academic support, contributing significantly to the students’ mental and emotional well-being.

“The mentors are the anchor of our work. When an adult shows up consistently, enthusiastically prepared, it makes kids feel so important,” Andrea emphasizes. The training for mentors includes a deep dive into understanding communities and personal biases, ensuring that they provide the best support for the students.

Impact and Future Goals

The Center for Success Network continuously monitors and evaluates its programs to ensure effectiveness. They conduct regular assessments to track literacy progress, gather feedback from students, mentors, and families, and make data-driven improvements.

“We do regular listening sessions and feedback surveys a couple of times a year. Families can let us know how this is impacting them and what we can improve,” Andrea explains. The positive feedback highlights the increased confidence, eagerness to learn, and overall well-being of the students involved.

Andreas Continued Leadership

Andrea’s leadership extends beyond the Center for Success Network. She recently joined the Michigan Out of School Time Committee and the steering committee for the Youth Development Resource Center, contributing her expertise to broader educational initiatives across the state.

“Out of school time has a place in the Department of Education now, which is a huge piece. Lifelong learning is something they’re talking about, and it’s exciting to be part of that conversation,” Andrea shares.

Andrea’s journey from a passionate teacher to a community leader underscores the transformative power of literacy and community engagement. The Center for Success Network continues to thrive under her leadership, making significant strides in supporting and empowering students in Detroit and Pontiac. Their mission to unite community and literacy remains unwavering, with an ongoing commitment to expanding their impact and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed. Through rigorous assessment, consistent mentorship, and community feedback, the Center for Success Network not only improves literacy but also builds a foundation for lifelong learning and personal growth.

“We’re always looking at how many mentors we have and expanding into different spaces,” Andrea concludes. Her vision and dedication continue to drive the organization forward, making a profound difference in the lives of countless children and families. The Center for Success Network exemplifies how community collaboration and a focus on literacy can create lasting positive change in education.