2009 Performance Accountability Report Vol. 2 - Maryland Higher ...

Public Schools, Montgomery College, and the Universities at Shady Grove (part of the
University System of Maryland) collaborate on creating a seamless educational pipeline for
students within Montgomery County.
These partnerships have grown in breadth and scope and now consist of more than 30 joint
projects for the benefit of students. Aligned with the Maryland State Plan for Postsecondary
Education, Goal 4 (strengthen and expand teacher preparation programs and support studentcentered,
preK-16 education to promote student success at all levels), several innovative
initiatives are worth noting:
College Institute provides an opportunity for high-achieving seniors at four selected high
schools to earn college credits in college courses taught on the high school campus during
a regular school day. Students can earn up to 30 college credits on their high school
campus, and all courses apply towards a Montgomery College degree.
The Gateway to College program serves at-risk youth, 16 to 20 years old, who have
stopped attending MCPS high schools and for whom high school completion is at risk.
The program offers students a second chance to earn a high school diploma while earning
college credits at Montgomery College.
The College Tech Prep Program prepares students for high demand, high technology, and
high wage careers. Beginning in high school, Tech Prep students enroll in selected,
career-focused programs that provide some college credit when they attend Montgomery
College.
The Institute for Global and Cultural Studies (IGCS) is a unique collaboration among
Montgomery College; Montgomery County Public Schools; University of Maryland,
Baltimore County (UMBC); and Wheaton High School. IGCS is a humanities-based
pathway to higher education that provides students with an opportunity to explore, learn,
and understand the world around them, and offers students a wealth of opportunities
focused on global and cultural themes beginning in their freshman year.
In fall of 2007, the MC/MCPS Partnership began work on a middle school initiative to
increase awareness of and preparation for postsecondary studies beginning in Grade 6.
Salto al Futuro provides academic support and mentoring to prospective first generation
college students. The program’s goals are to ensure that participating students graduate
from high school “college ready,” and continue their education at MC or other
postsecondary institutions of higher education. Guest speakers, mentors, internships, and
part-time employment or internship opportunities are provided by the Hispanic business
community.
Workforce Development and Continuing Education (WD&CE)
The development of knowledge, technology, and a highly trained workforce is essential to a
strong, competitive economy in Maryland (2004 State Plan for Postsecondary Education). The
WD&CE unit plays a major role in the economic growth and vitality of Montgomery County by
strengthening its presence in the business community.
In fiscal 2008, the WD&CE unit provided contract training and services to 70 businesses or
trade associations in the County. However, it is important to note that the figure for “contract
185