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Florida College Access Network

 

 Florida College Access Network 

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What does the Florida College Access Network (FCAN) hope to accomplish?

The FCAN exists to promote partnerships among the college access and readiness programs in Florida that are committed to increasing the numbers of college-bound students in Florida. The network includes programs that address the needs of racial and ethnic minority students, students with limited English proficiency, students with disabilities, and economically disadvantaged students. Previously there has been no statewide system to coordinate these efforts, resulting in an often-fragmented approach to meeting student needs. FCAN will bridge the gaps, help maximize resources, and help create a seamless network of communication for the benefit of students.

One of the main areas of focus of the FCAN is to promote participation with the Florida Partnership for Minority and Underrepresented Students. The Partnership encourages high school students to take the PSAT test, and provides development activities for teachers on research-based teaching methods which assist students to achieve higher order cognitive skills. In addition, the FCAN provides a forum through an annual conference for collaborative research, review of best practices, state-level policy input and recommendations for accountability methods to ensure continuous program improvement.

Who can be included in the Florida College Access Network?

The FCAN includes organizations currently participating in programs that work to raise student achievement and college readiness, especially among low-income, educationally disadvantaged, and racial and ethnic minority students. Some members include: the College Board; ACT, postsecondary institutions that conduct College Reach-Out, federal TRIO and GEAR-UP projects; district and school-based initiatives; the Florida Virtual School; ENLACE; and community and faith-based organizations that provide college access programs. Membership is free and simply requires the completion of a questionnaire and permission to post information related to the organization's services for student access to college. Request a form by calling 850-245-0511.

What resources are provided through the FCAN?

The Office of Equity and Access (OEA) is coordinating the on-going creation and maintenance of a college-access information clearinghouse and website for students, parents, teachers, and access program directors, to facilitate online collaboration among geographically dispersed providers. The Annual Florida College Access Network Conference provides the opportunity for all members and other professionals to meet, receive professional development, and collaborate.

What about the future success of FCAN?

The first conference was conducted in April 2005, and a statewide network is currently "under construction." The network includes members who have contacted the Office of Equity and Access expressing an interest in the FCAN and who have attended the first conference. Once fully established, it will include information about each year's conference, relevant and recently published articles, and new member information. Future goals and measurable outcomes will be developed by a committee of the members of the network as part of formulating an accountability component.