Research continues to show that students/families find financial aid confusing, and it's a barrier to college.  In this session we'll look at NCSEAA research findings to explore how to communicate in a way that reduces confusion so that students can access the funds they qualify for.

From College Now (40+ years old) to Future Ready NYC (3 years old), New York City Public Schools - in collaboration with a multitude of college partners - has created transformative opportunities for students to have access not only to post-secondary education in high school but also a number of ways to deeply explore career interests.  This session will showcase how the Office of Student Pathways works to support over 500 middle and high schools to ensure all students are prepared for a of post-secondary options.

This session will encourage educators to rethink traditional selection criteria for early college high school admissions, broadening definitions of student potential.  We will critically examine how reliance on narrow indicators like test scores and GPA may perpetuate inequities and overlook students with diverse strengths.  Participants will explore alternative, holistic models that incorporate socio-emotional skills, creativity, resilience, and passion for learning.  The session will highlight how such approaches can increase access to early college programs for underrepresented or marginalized students, fostering more equitable opportunities for all.

This interactive workshop will explore the impact of Early College courses on high school transcripts and their implications for college admissions.  Participants will discuss how these courses are graded, listed on transcripts, and the role of high school profiles in communicating Early College experiences. Key questions include:  How do colleges view these courses in admissions?  What challenges arise in GPA calculations? How can schools ensure accurate representation?  Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how transcript practices influence student opportunities.

This workshop will focus  on key Designation criteria used to determine MA Early College (EC)  Designation, with a focus on how the criteria were developed to diminish equity disparities in college enrollment, persistence, and degree completion in MA.  Learn more on how MA EC Designated programs are centered on five guiding principles (Equitable Access, Guided Academic Pathways, Enhanced Student Supports, Connections to Career, and Effective Partnerships) and how student participants receive enhanced academic and guidance support prior to beginning, and during, college coursework, as well as additional "college knowledge" to ensure that they not successfully complete college coursework in high school but thrive in the college environment.