College Readiness

What does “college ready” mean?

Being college ready means — at a minimum — having the knowledge, skills and behaviors needed to complete a first year of postsecondary study without remediation. College readiness can be achieved through a rigorous comprehensive learning system focusing on preparing students to successfully complete quality college-level course work while in high school. This level of preparation is also necessary for students to be considered career ready. Students who opt to enter the world of work or delay college after high school graduation also need the knowledge, skills and behaviors defined above.

Why is college readiness important?

Competitive, global work environments require more of our students to succeed in college in order to compete. Studies have shown that about one in five students who enter high school will earn a college degree:

Source: The National Center for Higher Education Management Systems Progress and Completion data

Research suggests a variety of personal and societal benefits associated with postsecondary education, including higher lifetime earnings, employment, healthier lifestyles and increased preparedness for school among their offspring. To read about the evidence for both private and public benefits of higher education, or to download the source report, visit Education Pays 2010 on the College Board Advocacy & Policy Center website.

What should students know and be able to do to be college ready?

EXCELerator’s research base was built upon David Conley’s research at the Educational Policy Improvement Center (EPIC). The Four Keys to College Readiness describe the knowledge, skills and behaviors students need to be college ready:

• Key Cognitive Strategies — Problem formulation, precision/accuracy, interpretation, communication, research
• Key Content Knowledge — Key terms and terminology, factual information, linking ideas, organizing concepts, Common Core State Standards (English Language Arts and math), NAS Science Framework, Standards for Success in other areas
• Key Learning Skills and Techniques — Time management, study skills, retention of factual information, goal setting, self-awareness, persistence, collaborative learning, ownership of learning
• Key Transition Knowledge and Skills — Admission requirements, college types and missions, career pathways, affording college, college culture, relations with professors, social/identity issues in transitioning

How can EXCELerator help?

EXCELerator focuses on improving districts’ capacity to ensure college readiness by strengthening infrastructure, ensuring coherent curricula and formative assessments, and developing the right supports for students and families.