Third 90 Network

An Innovative Learning Model with Urban High Schools to Teach Environmental Science

The Third 90 Network, a statewide, nationally-recognized program, is a catalyst for improving learning outcomes, raising college aspirations, and sharpening STEM career awareness. This early-engagement program combines urban high school students (Juniors and Seniors) with MCF college professors and students, conducting hands-on environmental research. The Third 90 Network engages students in a challenging academic setting, gives them a realistic notion of college-level work, builds their social, academic and career mentor networks, and prepares them for college success.

The Third 90 Network helps high school students:

  • Prepare for academic success at the college level
  • Develop a network of mentors at the high school and college levels
  • Broaden awareness of independent higher education options
  • Qualify for MCF scholarships and ultimately, obtain a four-year college degree
  • Increase their active, outdoor time
  • Understand the importance for community health and wellness

Building on the success of the Pilot Program

The first pilot project of the Third 90 Network was held in fall 2010 at Detroit’s University Preparatory Academy (UPA) with great success. MCF has since expanded the Third 90 Network throughout the state to seven high schools and seven MCF member colleges and universities, now engaging more than 200 high school students each year.  Through the support of generous donors, the Third 90 Network will continue to  expand to high schools and communities across the state.

Participating MCF Institutions:

Albion College
Aquinas College
Calvin College
Kalamazoo College
Madonna University
Marygrove College
Siena Heights University

Participating High Schools:

Detroit Community
Cornerstone Leadership and Business High School
Henry Ford Academy: School for Creative Study 
University Preparatory Academy High School
University Prep Science and Math High School

Grand Rapids Community
School for Health and Science at Central Campus
University Preparatory Academy of Grand Rapids

Coldwater Community
Three Rivers High School

 

Third 90 Network Sponsors

Cascade Engineering, Consumers Energy Foundation, The Council of Independent Colleges, CoCaseCo LLC, DTE Energy Foundation, Ford Motor Company Fund, Fifth Third Bank-Western Michigan, Masco Foundation, Meijer, Tom & Jacqueline Meyer, and The Wege Foundation

Third 90 Network Partners

Belle Isle Conservancy, Belle Isle Park, Michigan Department of Natural Resources

 

To learn more, call MCF at 248.356.3114
Hands-on Work to Restore Wetlands
“The real beauty of this program, outside of the extraordinary environmental work, is the opportunity for UPA students to work alongside and interact with college students and professors in such a meaningful way and the mentoring that goes on. After participating in something like this, how the students view their future is expanded –from the colleges they consider to the career possibilities they choose to pursue.”
Bob Thompson
The Thompson Foundation