Grand Rapids Community College
Grand Rapids Community College's next goal is the systemized implementation of improvements that raise the success of all student groups over multiple semesters.
With Achieving the Dream, the college will:
- Improve reading ability for all students by training faculty to use the Reading Apprenticeship model (RA), implemented first in developmental courses and next in selected gateway courses (once this training is in place, faculty will train the trainer and spread RA across the curriculum)
- Develop uniformity and sequencing of developmental and gateway math courses to include correlated syllabi, course schedules, assignments, and final exams, allowing GRCC to collect accurate, important data used to identify and evaluate learning outcomes and effective instructional methods to continually improve the significant achievement gaps in these courses
- Implement Integrated Delivery Options for the lowest-level developmental English course offered, using tutoring and access to as well as help with technology, which is unavailable to many developmental students in their homes
- Engage faculty and staff throughout the college in developing and refining interventions to improve student outcomes and offer ongoing professional development for faculty to ensure strategic advancement of student success efforts
In 2009, mandatory placement into a college success course for developmental students was approved and will be implemented for the first time in Fall 2011. GRCC will also maintain a voluntary option for the student success course for students with one developmental placement or for any other student interested in taking the course.
Grand Rapids Community College has served students in Michigan's second largest city for 97 years. In Fall 2009, the college enrolled 16,950 students; 26% were students of color and 58% were placed into at least one developmental course.
During the past seven years the college implemented a number of initiatives that have helped improve students' persistence from fall to winter. Changes in its Academic Foundation Program have also helped improve collaboration between academic and student support services for students most at risk of academic failure. During this time, the college has realized the persistence, transfer, and graduation rates of these students have risen. GRCC also has many active College Action Projects that are part of the College’s Strategic Plan, including: Integration of Diversity, Sustainability and Innovation in the Curriculum, Academic Foundations Program, Academic Advising Program, Discipline Specific Advisors/Mentors, Supplemental Learning Options, and Knowledge Management.
The Achieving the Dream Model
Achieving the Dream community colleges commit to our Student-Centered Model of Institutional Improvement. Based on four principles, the model frames the overall work of helping more students, particularly low- income students and students of color, stay in school and earn a college certificate or degree.
Each college approaches the work differently, but Achieving the Dream’s five-step process provides practical guidelines for keeping the focus where it belongs and building momentum over time. Throughout the process, Achieving the Dream coaches offer customized support and help each college’s core team implement data-informed programs and policies that build long-term, institution-wide commitment to student success.
