El Dorado, AR (March 14, 2008) - With the announcement of the El Dorado Promise in January 2007, more El Dorado High School students now consider the possibility of attending college a reality. Currently, a significant portion of upperclassmen are preparing for the rigors of college-level coursework. However, some students who qualify for the Promise, especially those who are now realizing that college can be a part of their futures, may find they need extra help in preparing for college-level courses. College-level math, especially, can be a problem for many.
Therefore, El Dorado Public Schools, South Arkansas Community College, and the El Dorado Education Foundation are pleased to announce Bridge to College Algebra, a new summer algebra program rich in hands-on experiences with real-world applications. Designed to assist borderline students who have struggled with Algebra II, the goal of this program is to prepare students for rigorous college coursework, namely College Algebra. Classes will take place at South Arkansas Community College, in partnership with personnel from the college, El Dorado Public Schools, and the El Dorado Education Foundation.
The five-week summer program will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Students will receive intensive math instruction each day, followed by interactive, lesson-based activities and small group tutoring. Collegiate visits to such universities as Louisiana Tech University and Henderson State University are part of the program, and field trips to put students’ algebra knowledge into practice, including a study of math principles involving roller coaster construction and design at Magic Springs amusement park, have been planned. In addition, students will each receive their own TI-84 Plus graphing calculator and will be trained in its usage.
Other benefits of the program include: improving ACT scores, preparing students to complete College Algebra (in either their college freshman year or for concurrent high school credit), preparing students for their required fourth-year high school math courses, and improving high school and college graduation rates. Up to 25 EHS juniors and/or seniors will be invited to participate. Upon successful completion, students may receive one semester of high school credit for Algebra II plus three hours of basic studies college credit for Intermediate Algebra.
Participants then will be expected to enroll in College Algebra during the fall semester of 2008, either concurrently at El Dorado High School or as freshmen in college. By building upon the principles of success used in Summer Math Camp, Rarin’ to Go Rams, and the Waiting to Excel programs, Bridge to College Algebra proposes to do what the name implies… connect high school coursework to the expectations of first-year college requirements.
Persons interested in the program should contact: Tom Simmons, Math Chair for the El Dorado Public School District, at 870.864.5167; or Christy Wilson, Director of College Transition at South Arkansas Community College, at 870.864.8416.