The kids who attend ChiTech (as the students have named it) commute on average three hours a day to attend a school where they stay later, work harder and are challenged every day to be the best they can be. The kids are drawn from some of the toughest neighborhoods of Chicago and represent a true American melting pot of diversity. But they all have one thing in common. They are uncommon in their drive and passion for using technology in creative ways to learn and to define a better future for themselves.
This year's lottery had more than 1,000 entries for 250 spots. The event itself was held live on the University of Illinois at Chicago campus and was attended by supporters, school personnel, current students and a cadre of prospective students and parents.
As the ChiTech Board Chair, Terry Howerton told me, "It's a bittersweet experience." You see many excited faces but also many more dejected ones who will have to bide their time on a wish-list hoping the chosen ones choose other options.
Soon-to-be freshmen rejoice at winning the ChiTech lottery.It was particularly tough because many of the students and parents who did attend the event were likely those who most wanted to go to ChiTech. I almost felt as though it should have been a "you must be present to win" moment. But knowing the challenges some of the kids and families face, it was understandable, and I know all the kids chosen are lucky and worthy to attend ChiTech.
Another highlight of the lottery was watching current students get up on stage and talk about why they think ChiTech is so terrific. The kids worked on their speeches and spoke from the heart. They were nervous and excited and at several times had to stop and catch their breath, but they paint a compelling picture of what is possible at ChiTech.
At CompTIA, we’re very lucky to be in a position to support such a tremendous initiative and to be a part of a community that will grow and thrive. I would encourage you to find out more about ChiTech or a school in your area doing innovative things and find ways to give back. The effort pays back 10 times over.
