Middle School to College Campus Visits
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, N.C.
Innovation Synopsis
Our library outreach program takes economically at-risk middle school students to several area colleges for campus tours and provides an overview of the college experience and requirements at different types of schools. Often, these tours mark the first time many students consider higher education as a viable option.
Challenge/Opportunity
In the wake of a national study that ranked Charlotte last in economic mobility among the 50 largest U.S. cities, a city-wide Opportunity Task Force produced a set of recommendations to improve the outlook for our children. One was to introduce at-risk students to the idea of college before they enter high school. Traditional college tours are meant for older students, and there are very limited opportunities for younger teens, especially those who are economically disadvantaged. The library fills this gap.
Key Elements of Innovation
The library established partnerships with area colleges and universities and Communities in Schools to develop a program in alignment with the Opportunity Task Force recommendations. A series of visits to campus classrooms and dorms provides information about everything from academic requirements and financial aid to student life. These tours allow teens to ask questions and envision a college experience and course of study that is right for them and chart an accessible path to get there.
Achieved Outcomes
The program is in its second academic year and, through our partnership with Communities in Schools, we expect to know the next steps of participating students as they graduate over the next four years. For now, we see increased interest in college among participating middle schoolers. Many have enrolled in the library’s suite of College 101 programs that address everything from testing and admissions procedures to financial aid.
