Stronger out-reach to a growing population is critical to the development of the educated and talented workforce California needs to remain a competitive economic leader. The Community Colleges will ensure that Californians of any race, sex, age, color, ethnicity, economic means, and national origin have access to a college education and all the lifelong benefits that come with it.

download full movies

Encourage early awareness of the Community Colleges as an option and the need for K-12 students and parents to prepare for college success. Go to Strategy 1 Home...

Student interest in attending college is often formed in elementary school. High school students who believe college is a viable option are more likely to take college preparation classes and make plans to attend college. California’s overall high school graduation rate is about 71 percent, and only about half of all high school freshmen will continue on to higher education within two years of graduation. With increased early awareness,students will have a better understanding of community college as a viable option and a stronger knowledge of application procedures, college entrance requirements, and financial aid opportunities.

Ensure that the Community Colleges remain affordable and fulfill their primary mission of providing open access to all Californians. Go to Strategy 2 Home...

Community Colleges must remain an affordable option and take measures to ensure student success. Many high school and college students are not aware of financial aid options while others are not able to access the information, read forms, or understand procedures. Strategies must be developed that address financial and other barriers facing community college students.

Increase college access among growing population groups that will emerge from current demographic trends. Go to Strategy 3 Home...

There is a need to increase college access among California’s under-served groups. By 2015, an estimated 600,000 additional students will enroll in Community Colleges, and many of these students will be low-income and/or first-generation college students. There is also a second Hidden Tidal Wave of more than 750,000 students who are not high school graduates but could still benefit from a Community College education. Strategies will be developed to improve access for key groups: Tidal Wave II students, Hidden Tidal Wave students, adult learners, workforce participants, and unskilled/underskilled workers. 

Expand and sustain an appropriate range of delivery methods to enhance access while maintaining and promoting high standards of academic rigor and excellence.  Go to Strategy 4 Home...

An appropriate range of delivery methods is needed to improve access while maintaining high academic standards. The use of technology can bridge gaps that may be caused by income or geographical disparities. The Plan calls for the development of strategies to expand the use of distance education, online and hybrid courses.

Support equity and diversity at the Community Colleges to build a strong society and enable a multicultural democracy. Go to the Strategy A5 Home...

The Community Colleges strive to provide equal opportunity to a diverse student population in order to build a stronger society and enable a multicultural democracy. The Colleges must also work to strengthen their employee's capacity to demonstrate sensitivity to all groups and provide equal opportunity in recruitment efforts.