University System of Georgia Strategic Plan

Strategic Goal Four:
Strengthen the USG’s partnerships with the state’s other education agencies.

Challenge

Minority, at-risk, and underserved populations are disproportionately lacking in postsecondary education. Minority populations in Georgia are increasing; non-minority population is not. Race / ethnic disparities in:

  • High school graduation rates (Blacks 65.5%; Hispanics 60.3%, Whites 77.5%).
  • USG enrollment (Blacks 24.0%; Hispanics 3.3%, Whites 60.5%).
  • Educational attainment (61% of Whites aged 25-64 have some postsecondary education compared to only 51% of Blacks and 29% of Hispanics in the same age range. One in three Whites has a bachelor’s degree or higher compared with 1/5 Blacks and 1/7 Hispanics).

Action

Increase postsecondary enrollment of minority, underserved, and at-risk youth, USG action: Early College–a blended program, grades nine-first two-years of college, for students meeting at least one of the following characteristics:

  • Minority.
  • High-poverty.
  • English language learners.
  • First-generation college students.

Activities for Implementation

  • Expand the USG-led Early Colleges.

  • Implement research-based activities that emphasize the importance of school attendance and performance on state accountability tests.

  • Implement research-based activities that emphasize preparation for college success.

Baseline Measure & Targets

Baseline Measure 2008 Target 2009 Target 2010 Target 2011 Target 2012 Target
Number of Early Colleges between high schools and USG institutions. 2007: 6 sites. 12 Target 12 18 (pending funding) 18 18
Actual 12
Percent of Early Colleges that outperform their district on student attendance. 2007: 100% met target. 100% Target 100% 100% 100% 100%
Actual 100%
Percent of Early Colleges that outperform their district on the percent of students passing state accountability tests. 2007: 83%. 84% Target 86% 88% 89% 90%
Actual 100%
Percent of Early Colleges students with a grade of C or better in dual enrollment courses. 2009 Baseline. Baseline Set after baseline established

« Challenges, Actions, & Implementation