This document discusses developing indicators of college readiness. It notes that only 18 out of 100 high school freshmen will graduate college on time. It advocates using math and science achievement as early indicators because these subjects are accurate predictors of college success and require critical thinking skills needed for future careers. Specifically, it recommends that students complete pre-algebra by 7th grade and algebra I by 8th grade to be on track. It also notes that current indicators are assessed too late in high school, leaving students without enough time to improve skills. The document proposes a new readiness indicator called Alleyoop that could provide up to 5 years of additional time to help students enhance their skills before college.

1. Developing Actionable
College Readiness
Indicators

2. Of 100 high school
freshman, only 18
will graduate college
on time.
The problem

3. What’s Alleyoop? 3
A college readiness network for teens because getting ready
for college is more than just getting in.

4. College readiness starts with 4
math and science
Why math? Why science?
Accurate predictor of •Best way to develop critical
college success thinking and other 21st
century skills
Gating factor for college
•High demand careers of the
Key tripping point for 8th future
and 9th graders

5. Algebra skills essential
• Algebra is a prerequisite for many high school and postsecondary math
courses as well as the course that first teaches abstract reasoning in
mathematics. (Achieve, 2008)
• Algebra II requires students to think critically about mathematics and
prepares them not only for advanced mathematics courses but for
advanced science courses (e.g., chemistry, physics) as well. (ENLACE
Florida, 2008)
• Twenty states and the District of Columbia require students to pass
Algebra II or the equivalent to graduate, and students that take Algebra II
in high school tend to get higher paying jobs. (Carnevale & Desrochers,
2003)
• Too many US secondary students fail to attain the skills they need for a
successful post secondary education and career. (Balfanz, Bridgeland,
Bruce, & Fox, 2012)
5

6. Getting students on track
To be on track for Algebra II and college
readiness in high school, research
recommends students complete Pre-
algebra in grade 7 and Algebra I,
preferably by grade 8 but at least by
grade 9.
6

7. State of college readiness
indicators
Current indicators are gathered from students toward the
end of high school (e.g., SAT, ACT, high school GPA).
NOT enough time for students
who are behind to enhance their Today’s Indicators
skills before day one of college
freshman year.
Not much time to
7
adjust…

8. Alleyoop college readiness
indicator
Alleyoop Indicator Today’s Indicators
Not much time to
Up to 5 years more time!!!
adjust…
8

9. Helping students help 9
themselves
Personalized
Learning Activities Game Dynamics
Guidance

10. THANKS!
@alleyoop
www.alleyoop.com