One local college will be awarded $2.25 million over the next five years to enhance programs that help first-time students succeed. The funding from the Federal Education Department will help Finger Lakes Community College cover salaries for specialists to revise entry-level courses and programs and for coaches to provide regular guidance through the first semester for up to 500 students each year.
“Research has shown that students who learn to navigate college and do well in their first semester are much more likely to stay in school and complete their academic programs,” said FLCC President Robert Nye.
The new funding will also boost existing initiatives to reduce barriers to education, whether due to low incomes, disabilities, or other disadvantages. For example, the college’s current strategic plan prioritizes Universal Design for Learning, an approach to designing courses considering students’ different abilities and learning styles. This might include routinely presenting material in both audio and visual formats and providing live captioning for every class.
“As a community college, we are very focused on equity. That means giving everyone a chance to succeed no matter their past experiences and backgrounds,” Nye continued. “Society benefits because higher levels of education lead to higher incomes and less unemployment.”
The college will receive $450,000 per year over the next five years with the goal of increasing the percentage of low-income and students of color who complete a credential, such as a certificate or an associate degree. FLCC provides 1-year certificates and 2-year degrees in about 60 programs, including nursing, health care studies, engineering science and networking and cybersecurity.
FLCC has also joined a SUNY-funded initiative to increase student completion rates and narrow opportunity gaps. Called Advancing Success in Associate Pathways, or ASAP, the program provides financial assistance, personalized academic advising, and career development to low-income students. Those enrolled in the program are required to meet twice monthly with a coach during their first semester to review academic progress and career planning.
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