The Reaching At Promise Students Association (RAPSA) conference was a transformative gathering that help unite over 250 educators, community organizations, state agencies, and workforce development leaders from more than 20 states across the nation. Held in a vibrant setting, the conference focused busting down silos and building bridges, through practitioner informed research and policy change.
RAPSA conference recognized student success by providing five at-promise students with college scholarship awards of $1,000 each. Attendee’s also attended panel discussions featuring at-promise students and young adults, highlighting their journeys and the systemic changes needed to support them.
RAPSA and New Ways to Work recognize that our nation’s educational system has not always served all students equitably, but together, we have the power to reshape it for a more just and inclusive future. The conference underscored our shared commitment to support at-promise youth and the education and workforce systems that support them.
Over the past year, RAPSA and New Ways To Work, with the support of philanthropic partners such as the Stuart Foundation and the Walters S. Johnson Foundation, worked toward the development and sustainment of organizational relationships and partnerships, with a strategic focus and recognition of shared interest to help communities better prepare youth and young adults for bright futures regardless of where they come from.
RAPSA is steadfast in its commitment to dismantling systemic barriers and ensuring that at-promise students receive the high-quality education and support they deserve. Through professional development, networking, and innovative partnerships, RAPSA equips educators with the knowledge, tools, and community support necessary to foster meaningful and lasting change for opportunity youth.
The conference left participants energized, equipped with actionable insights to uplift opportunity youth and participants are looking forward to returning to the conference in San Diego in November 2026!