College Academy for Parents (CAP)
Institution:
University of Arizona
State:
Arizona
Academic Level:
Baccalaureate
Issue Area:
Support Services
Program Focus:
College Prep, Parental/Family Engagement
Website:
Key Personnel:
Susan M. Towne
Contact Info:
ssntwn@email.arizona.edu. | 520.626.2350
Overview
College Academy for Parents (CAP) is a FREE college preparation program defined by the belief that informed parents can be the best advocates for their child's success in entering college. The earlier a student and their family begin to prepare and understand the college preparation process, the more likely they will be to successfully enter a four-year university.
Program Description
College Academy for Parents is a comprehensive 12-week program that works with elementary school parents as they develop a college plan for their children. College Academy for Parents operates under the principal that a college education begins in the home. Parents are their children's first educators and the program respects their experiences, culture and community. The program provides workshops that engage parents with college knowledge and the University of Arizona faculty members. The program also provides a college camp for K-6th grade students to help develop college aspirations. For parents who complete the program, a graduation ceremony is hosted at the university to help reinforce what they have learned and the importance of their children attending college.
Outcome
Increase parents' college readiness knowledge: In a 2016 survey conducted by CAP, parents were asked to reflect on their knowledge both before and after CAP. The survey showed statistically significant gains in all 25 college knowledge variables.
Increase parents' college entry knowledge: In the same survey, English speaking parents experience substantial gains in confidence in knowing which classes their children need to apply for a four-year institution. Spanish and English speaking parents reported considerable gains in college requirements and financial aid knowledge.
