Jocelyn Sanders
For more than 25 years, Jocelyn Sanders built a successful career as a salon owner and licensed cosmetologist. But deep down, there were still goals she wanted to complete, like going back to school.
Raven Edwards’ experience as a Chicago Public Schools student inspired her journey to become a CPS teacher. The Teach Chicago Tomorrow program—a partnership between CPS, City Colleges, and various four-year educational partners, is helping make that dream come true.
After graduating from Lindblom Math and Science Academy, Raven enrolled at Truman College with the support of the SEED Scholarship and Star Scholarship, allowing her to pursue her associate degree debt-free.
“[At City Colleges], you’re getting the education that you’re going to need later on in your career, but it’s at a lower cost and you also have so many resources available,” she said.
While pursuing her education at Truman, Raven maintained a strong GPA and took on the additional challenge of becoming a reading tutor for CPS. Her hard work earned her the recognition of valedictorian of Truman College’s Class of 2024.
In the fall, Raven plans to attend Illinois State University in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in elementary education—part of the Teach Chicago Tomorrow pathway. She then plans to become a CPS teacher and hopes to make a difference in the lives of children by providing them with a quality education and unparalleled support.
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