Academy for Urban School Leadership (AUSL)

At AUSL's graduation celebration, Dr. Jennifer Mueller, Dean of DePaul University's College of Education, celebrated the Class of 2026 and the dedication it took to reach this milestone.

Through a rigorous residency experience, these future educators didn't just study teaching, they lived it. As they prepare to enter classrooms of their own, they do so with the knowledge, experience, and commitment needed to make a lasting impact on students and communities.

Congratulations to the AUSL Teacher Residency Class of 2026! 🎓✨

"We didn't just earn a degree. We developed the skills, the resilience, and the passion needed to make a real impact on education."

As a member of the inaugural Lake County Teacher Residency cohort, Stephanie Raggs-Minor reflected on the journey, growth, and purpose that brought the Class of 2026 to this moment.

Congratulations to Stephanie and all of our resident teachers as they prepare to make a difference in classrooms and communities across Illinois. 🎓✨

At graduation, AUSL's Chicago Teacher Residency Director Carina Kearley reflected on the power of education, the responsibility of educators, and the impact this year's graduates will have on more than 4,000 students next school year alone.

For 25 years, AUSL has prepared transformational educators and graduated more than 1,500 teachers who have gone on to impact thousands of students.

Now, the Class of 2026 becomes part of that legacy.

As they step into classrooms across Chicagoland, their journey is just beginning. 💙

💙 Every teacher has a reason.

As the AUSL Class of 2026 graduates and prepares for the next chapter, we asked two simple questions: Why did you choose to become a teacher? And what are you most excited about?

Their answers reflect the passion, purpose, and hope they bring to classrooms across Chicagoland.

The future is in good hands. 🎓✨

🎓 Congratulations to the AUSL Class of 2026!

Last week, we celebrated our resident teachers as they completed their residency year and officially joined the AUSL alumni community. From inspiring speeches to unforgettable moments with peers, mentors, and staff, the day was a celebration of the dedication, growth, and passion that brought them here.

As they prepare to step into classrooms across Chicagoland and Lake County, we know their impact will be felt for years to come.

Congratulations, Class of 2026. We're proud of all you've accomplished and excited for what's ahead. 💙💛

🎉 Surprise, Ms. Juarez! 🎉

We recently visited Solorio High School to share some exciting news: Ms. Andrea Juarez has been named AUSL’s first-ever Resident of the Year! 💙💛

Throughout her residency, Ms. Juarez has created an inclusive, student-centered classroom where all learners feel seen, valued, and empowered. One example of her impact is the art therapy class she helped lead, which paired honor students with students with severe and profound disabilities, creating meaningful opportunities for connection and inclusion across the school community. Her creativity, leadership, and commitment to students have made a lasting impact on her school community and exemplify the very best of AUSL.

To celebrate this well-deserved recognition, Ms. Juarez and a guest are heading to Lollapalooza as part of our first-ever AUSLapalooza experience, made possible by the generous support of C3 Presents. 🎶

Congratulations, Ms. Juarez, on being named AUSL’s first-ever Resident of the Year! We’re proud to celebrate you and all you’ve accomplished. ✨

We’re excited to announce the very first AUSL Resident of the Year! 🏆

To celebrate an incredible year of impact, leadership, and dedication to students, AUSL’s Resident of the Year will receive a graduation surprise from the AUSL family: two tickets to Lollapalooza thanks to the support of C3 Presents 🎉

Stay tuned because is officially on the way 👀✨

As Teacher Appreciation Month continues, we’re reflecting on special moments from our April 2026 AUSL Benefit Dinner, including welcoming former U.S. Secretary of Education and former CEO of Chicago Public Schools Arne Duncan.

Secretary Duncan played an important role in AUSL’s early beginnings. During his time leading Chicago Public Schools, he worked alongside civic and education leaders to help launch AUSL around a shared belief that every student deserves access to a great teacher and strong educational opportunities.

During the evening, Arne reflected on the power of education, the importance of investing in teachers, and the lasting impact educators have on students and communities across Chicago.

Thank you, Arne Duncan, for helping us celebrate 25 years of lasting change.