Ford Foundation Bridges to Opportunity NCWE 2004 Fall Conference Washington State’s Goals To develop a systemic vision that integrates adult literacy, workforce, and transfer missions with the state’s economic development needs To provide a pathway to a better future for low-income people Tina Bloomer Student Achievement Director, Washington State Board for Community &Technical Colleges

Conduct a study on demand and capacity for students identifying need for technical bachelors degrees  professional/technical specialization  management specialization Develop a statewide transfer degree in elementary education Work on the development of state-level applied baccalaureate transfer agreements Workforce to Transfer Integration Project

Integrated Social Services for Low-Income Students Conduct a feasibility study on the collocation of Employment Security Department and the Department of Social and Health Services services on campuses.  Identify the “right” services for collocation and changes to the delivery system  Identify what we are striving to do by locating services together to better serve low income people

Workforce/Adult Basic Education Integration Projects Quality integrated learning occurs when:  Efforts begin with faculty most optimistic and enthused about integrated learning  Relationships, roles, and responsibilities are clear with all stakeholders  Faculty members are cross-educated about the culture, norms, and values of their respective disciplines  Curriculum is built between Adult Education and Professional/Technical faculty members

Research Project Create a better understanding of low- income students Identify the state-level policy implications  One year of college credit + a credential is the tipping point for students struggling to find career pathways.  Build the pathways for commuters. Run it on their schedules, accommodate lots of on and off traffic, facilitate good connections to long-term destinations.

Communication Project Work with consultant  Increase the proficiency of communicating about low-income students with key external and internal constituencies

Financial Aid Policy The Future Teachers Program A pilot project for students working 30+ hours per week and take five credits or less

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