Volume VII - Spring 2010 [pdf]

Extended article:

Promising Practices in College Access

"The term ‘college access’ today suggests not only entry into postsecondary education but also the myriad challenges it poses for many students, particularly minority and low-income students. Researchers contend that tuition costs, racial discrimination, social disadvantages, and lack of adequate academic preparedness have contributed to the vast under-representation of these groups of students on college and university campuses." (Education Week, 2004)
 
GEAR UP uses a multi-tiered approach to support students who face such challenges. Each district receives funding to raise the bar on their college access programs, and individualized support is provided all year from our regional coordinators.  Income-eligible GEAR UP graduates receive up to $5,550 per year in GEAR UP scholarships.  This totals up to $22,200 over the life of a student’s college career!
 
Maine’s current GEAR UP grant expires in 2011, and we are already in the process of collaborating and brainstorming to apply for another 6-year grant. Please see the below collection of promising practices in college access that our staff collected based on experience and research. These practices will guide the next GEAR UP grant application.  Contact Beth Lambert, beth@syntiro.org if you have feedback, ideas, or are interested in being involved with the grant-writing team.

Collaborative leadership and professional learning communities

• A college access team is in place that consists of administrators, support staff, teachers, students, parents, and community partners, and meets regularly to ensure that all students have access to postsecondary education.
• Partnerships with all parents are established to enhance and support student learning, financial planning, and knowledge of the college-going process.
• Community partnerships enhance career exploration, civic responsibility, and expand curriculum outside the school walls.
• Principal/Instructional leadership is promoted, supported, and distributed among staff.

Personalization of the school environment

• Individualized student supports include career and college exploration, financial counseling, tutoring, test preparation, personal assistance with college applications and the FAFSA, and a connection with a caring adult.
• Learning is personalized for each student with plans, portfolios, and student-lead conferences.
• Transition planning and support is in place for each student as they move from middle to high school and from high school to college and career; structures include 9th grade teams; plans that include goals focused on career and college;
• College access work targets all students and includes underserved populations.
• High expectations for all students.

Curriculum, instruction, and assessment

• Curriculum is rigorous and embeds technology, includes research-based differentiated teaching methods, and provides the necessary skills and content needed for a smooth transition into postsecondary education.
• Instructional practices engage, reach, and teach all learners.
• Rigorous courses, including AP and college courses.
• Multiple sources of relevant data is used to inform strategies for improved student outcomes.
• High aspirations for all students by facilitating student engagement and achievement in a supportive learning environment.

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