Student U

In a time when so many headlines feel heavy, this report is full of something we all need more of: good news.

Good news powered by people who continue to invest in students and their futures. Student U’s 2025 Impact Report is here, and it’s filled with stories of growth, resilience, leadership, and community.

Here’s a quick look:
✨ A 53% six-year college graduation rate for Student U students
✨ Full ownership of the W.G. Pearson Center and 100% occupancy for nonprofit partners
✨ Growth in Community School academic success across Durham

Every milestone represents students, families, educators, mentors, and supporters working together toward brighter futures.

Read the full report: https://hubs.la/Q04jdxPw0

77 new students just started their journey with us 🫶

64 rising 6th graders
7 rising 7th graders
6 rising 8th graders

But this wasn’t just an orientation. It was the beginning of a long-term relationship. A moment where families felt the difference. Connection. Joy. Belief in what’s possible. This is what it looks like when students walk into a space built for them.

Know a student or family who should be part of this? Share this post or learn how to apply on our website.

The work is growing… and so is the impact

Student U is now supporting:
📚 24 schools
👩🏽‍🎓 12,000+ students
📍 Across central North Carolina

This year, community schools expanded into the Sandhills, bringing 12 new schools into the model, and next year, we’re adding even more schools right here in Durham.

This is how change actually happens. We learn alongside students and families. We build what works. Then we bring it to more communities.

Want to go deeper? Check out the full story and see how this model is growing on our website.

We celebrated our 8th graders as they head into high school. A moment full of pride for everything they’ve accomplished, and everything still ahead. At Student U, this is just one step in a longer journey, as many of our students return as interns, educators, and leaders. That’s the kind of impact that lasts 💫

Drop a 🎉 in the comments to celebrate our students and cheer them on

If you’ve ever wondered what Student U actually looks like in action… this is your chance 👀 You’ll start with breakfast and conversation, then step into classrooms where students are engaged, supported, and thriving. You’ll hear directly from students about their journeys and meet the people who make this work real every day.

Join us at our Summer Academy Morning Brilliance Tour
🗓 July 21
⏰ 8:30–10:00 AM
This is what joyful learning looks like 💡

Save your spot on our website and come experience it for yourself >> https://hubs.la/Q04gpnnZ0

Summer can be more than just time off ☀️ Our 5-week Summer Academy is now open for applications. Students build skills, grow confidence, and stay connected to a community that believes in them. This is where learning feels different, and where students keep moving forward 👉 Applications open through May 25.

Apply now on our website, or spread the word to a student who should be there.
https://hubs.la/Q04hkdjX0

Strong public schools are more than places for learning. They are hubs for education, mental health support, family connection, and community care.

In the May 2026 episode of In Touch with Durham County, Student U. Executive Director Elena Maina shares how powerful community school partnerships are helping create stronger outcomes for students, families, and the future of Durham. We’re grateful for the partners and supporters helping invest in a model that strengthens the whole community.

Watch the full episode here:

In Touch with Durham County - May 2026 The May 2026 episode of “In Touch with Durham County” welcomes Durh...

This one belongs to Durham 💛 We were honored to receive the Community Partner Award from DPS Foundation.

But the truth is, this recognition reflects what happens when a community shows up for its students. When people invest time, energy, and belief. Students don’t just succeed… they shine ✨

We’re also celebrating our board member, Dr. Iwinosa Idahor, whose leadership continues to make a real impact.

Help us keep the momentum going by sharing this post or getting involved.

We’ve got something big to share ✨

Our updated mission: We are students, families, and educators cultivating joy and academic excellence so all students can thrive

This isn’t new for us. It’s who we’ve always been.
But now we’re saying it out loud.
We’re not here to help students survive a system.
We’re here to build something better.

And “beyond” matters.
Beyond Durham.
Beyond one school.
Beyond limits.
Because every student deserves joy, belonging, and real opportunity

Want to see what this looks like in real life? Watch our State of Student U on our YouTube channel >> https://hubs.la/Q04ghHMR0