Many students are unable to get into college. Among those who do get in, many are unable to finish. In order to be economically competitive, our nation needs more college graduates. And we need more graduates from all groups, including low-income students and minority students, who are currently under-represented and are more likely to face certain obstacles than are wealthier, non-minority students.

The tendency of our students being unable to attend college begins in high school, middle school and even elementary school. Low test scores and high dropout rates show that many students are not prepared for college. While it may seem easier to blame students for their lack of college enrollment or success, the fact is that there are larger institutional factors at play both at the K-12 level and at the college level. When students have uncertified teachers, broken buildings, and little support, their education suffers.

We need our children to be successful in school. We need them to graduate and have options to either attend college or join the workforce.

IDRA Policy Issues in 2013 for Texas
Much is at stake as the Texas Legislature convenes in Austin until June 2013. IDRA’s stands regarding higher education access are:

• No changes should be made to the Texas Top Ten Percent Plan.
• Funding for Texas Grant Program should be based on students’ financial need.

IDRA’s stands regarding student tracking are:

• Students should not be tracked into low-level courses nor into different diploma routes or graduation plans.
• Schools should provide a high quality curriculum that prepares all students to enroll in and complete college, supplemented by optional courses that prepare them to enter the workforce after graduation.

IDRA’s stands regarding teaching quality are:

• All students should have equitable access to quality teaching within and across school districts.
• Teacher preparation programs should be updated to prepare educators to serve a diverse student population.

Find out why and see more on IDRA’s other policy issues for this session in Texas .

Webinar on IDRA's OurSchool Portal 2.0 – Quality Data to Improve Education for All
Please join IDRA for a virtual briefing to have a first-hand opportunity to take a tour of IDRA's expanded OurSchool Portal. This bilingual (Spanish/English) data portal now provides college-readiness data for every secondary public school district in Texas . You can also learn how school, community, and family leaders are using the portal now - and get tips and exchange ideas about how you can use the portal to strengthen education in your district. The recorded webinar is offered on multiple dates.

Listen to related episodes of IDRA’s Classnotes Podcast
Principal on Creating a College Going Culture – March 29, 2011
Connecting Every Student to a Meaningful Future – March 10, 2011
College for All – August 3, 2010
High School Youth Tekies on College Access – June 16, 2010
Youth, Technology and College Access – April 12, 2010
What Students Need their School Counselors to Hear – December 18, 2008
College Access for Low-Income and Minority Students – October 14, 2008