A BluePrint for Success: Case Studies of Successful - Educational ...

A Blueprint for Success
Making the Grade
Making the Grade is a comprehensive academic enrichment program consisting of courses in math,
language arts, weekly tutoring, AP study groups and skill-building workshops. Students interested in
participating in this program must apply to College Bound, typically in the spring semester of 9th
grade. The goal of this program is to provide students with the academic foundation to succeed in
college level coursework at selective institutions.
Culture, Character, Capacity
This wrap-around program provides students with exposure to cultural events, community service,
and an ongoing “bank account” of financial, social service, and mentoring resources. This component
of College Bound addresses the cultural capital factors needed to succeed in diverse higher education
settings and provides students with the tools needed to “mitigate the effects of social, financial
and psychological hardship that disrupt students on their path to college success.”
Admission Accomplished
Admission Accomplished is the college access component that serves students in “closely-knit” cohorts
groups. It provides students with theories of action focused on college completion, guidance
from professional counselors, a network of supportive relationships and tools to help students create
high quality applications to four-year colleges. The goal of this program is to prepare students for
selective colleges that match their interests, aptitude and financial resources.
Complete U
Complete U begins in the second semester of 12th grade and continues working with students into
their first year in college and until graduation. This component aims to provide a seamless transition
for students from high school to college by preparing them for the emotional and psychological challenges
of such transition. Students participate in a financial literacy program; learn about classroom
etiquette and residential life from college advisors. The goal of Complete U is to ensure that College
Bound students who are admitted to college, graduate from college and can “go and enjoy the full
benefits of living in a community and contributing to a vital and educated workforce.”
Educational Policy Institute 31 www.educationalpolicy.org