Exciting News from Glasgow!
Residents of Glasgow, brace yourselves for some fantastic news coming from the Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC)! Their innovative Quality Enhancement Plan, aptly named “Writing: Where Your Voice Begins,”, has just been awarded the highly coveted 2025 Program of Promise Award by the National Organization for Student Success (NOSS). This is not just a feather in their cap; it’s a remarkable acknowledgment of their dedication to nurturing student success and growth.
What’s the Big Deal?
You might be wondering, “What’s so special about this award?” Well, the Program of Promise Award shines a spotlight on exemplary programs that employ effective strategies aimed at enhancing student development. This award sets the bar high for institutions across the higher education landscape! And guess what? SKYCTC’s plan targets new students, especially those who might need a little extra help – those with high school GPAs ranging from 2.0 to 2.9.
A Tailored Approach to Learning
The plan is all about offering support through a unique Integrated Reading and Writing (IRW) course. Students who find themselves enrolled in this developmental program are simultaneously taking a gateway English course, Writing I, all thanks to a block schedule format. This setup is part of a modified Accelerated Learning Program framework. What does this mean for students? Well, they can move through developmental courses at a faster pace while receiving structured and tailored support – a win-win situation!
What Makes It Work?
The success of this program lies in several key components. Students are paired in the coursework, specifically IRW 100 alongside ENG 101, and they also take part in a First Year Experience course. Plus, they’re limited to just nine credit hours. This strategic approach lowers the GPA cutoff for college readiness, thereby allowing students an incredible opportunity to progress through English courses more swiftly, all while receiving crucial guidance.
Support at Every Step
One of the most significant aspects of the initiative is the role of an embedded tutor. This tutor isn’t just a figurehead; they actively participate in classes, run workshops, and provide customized support. Their mission? To promote academic success, resilience, and the development of noncognitive skills. This approach is designed to empower students, ensuring they have all the tools necessary to not only succeed but also thrive.
Celebrating Successes!
Even more impressive is the data backing this initiative! According to Dean Stephanie Tolliver Hyman, who plays a critical role as the QEP Coordinator, the program has seen amazing results during its first year. Student success rates in ENG 101 have soared, experiencing an impressive increase of 11.8%, while student retention has improved by 1.6%. These numbers tell a story of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to student success!
A Future of Opportunity
Mark your calendars, folks! This stellar enhancement plan will be officially celebrated at the 2025 NOSS Conference taking place in New Orleans this coming February. It’s a proud moment not just for the college, but for the entire Glasgow community. It’s exciting to see initiatives like this making waves in higher education and proving that with the right support, every student can find their voice and excel.
Wrapping It Up
So, hats off to Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College for this well-deserved recognition! Their commitment to student success through the “Writing: Where Your Voice Begins” initiative is not only inspiring but also setting a standard for educational institutions everywhere. Here’s to many more successful years ahead!
