Preconference Sessions
Wednesday, April 22
10 a.m.–1 p.m.
AVID: A Systemic Approach towards College Readiness
Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is a systemic approach to providing social and academic support to non-traditional college-bound students. Combined with AP® teachers and programs, AVID can support academically capable students on any campus and encourage their success in rigorous academic courses. Schools in general could enumerate a few of those benefits when traditionally underrepresented student groups, such as Latinos, have increased access to and achievement in AP classes. Participants learn strategies for effectively supporting all students, especially Latinos, in AVID, AP, and other high-expectation programs.
Presenters: Kathy Arno, AVID Texas Program Manager, TX; Linda Powell-McMillan, AVID National Director of Program Development, CA; Cathy Simmons, AVID Florida State Director, FL
10 a.m.–3 p.m.
The Culturally Responsive School Counselor: Building Skills to Improve Equity in College Enrollment Rates
As populations shift and demographics change, schools and school counselors need increased awareness, new knowledge, and practical skills to reach out to students and their families in culturally responsive ways. They also need to nurture equal access to rigorous academic programs and support college preparation and achievement. Through self-assessment and reflection activities, participants build the practical skills required to be culturally responsive professionals who are able to address the needs of underserved students. Participants learn how to discuss academic equality, develop relationships, and understand interpersonal and institutional dynamics that can disadvantage groups of students. From this, participants can establish a culturally responsive climate of college readiness for all students.
Presenters: Vivian Lee, Higher Education School Counselor Specialist, National Office for School Counselor Advocacy, The College Board, DC; Patricia Martin, Assistant Vice President, Counselor Advocacy, The College Board, DC
10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Exploring Changing Demographics in Higher Education: Enrollment in the 21st Century
Participants explore population trends, predicted high school graduation rates, and socioeconomic data, which indicate that students applying to institutions in the year 2010 and beyond will represent increasingly diverse, multiethnic, and bilingual segments of the population. Participants assess the impact of these factors on their institutional grant levels, packaging guidelines, application rates, and enrollment goals. Participants also discuss what resources and strategies must be in place to effectively manage these impending shifts, and how to make the case for increased support from provosts, presidents, chief financial officers, and other key institutional personnel.
Presenters: Scott Smith, Educational Manager, Higher Education, The College Board, IL; Rene Rosas, Higher Education Manager, The College Board, PA
10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Realizing the DREAM: Advocating for Undocumented Students
During an informational and hands-on interactive session, participants develop an action plan for their individual campuses and organizations to increase educational access for undocumented students. By working in small groups to develop their action plan, participants learn about the latest research on undocumented immigrants, as well as state and federal laws that permit or impede their college aspirations. Participants identify successful strategies for working with undocumented students, as well as identifying potential allies in the struggle to secure equal college access for all students.
Presenters: Josh Bernstein, Director of Immigration, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), DC; Roberto Gonzales, Assistant Professor, University of Washington, WA; Alfred Herrera, Assistant Vice Provost, University of California, Los Angeles, CA
