CTN PRESENTS AT TEXAS PATHWAYS INSTITUTE 

CTN staff and instructors presented at the Texas Pathways Institute #5: “Keeping Students on Their Pathway” in Houston at the Hyatt Regency on April 7 from 1:50 to 2:45. The Ascender program was highlighted as an early intervention program. Presenting for CTN was Dr. Maria Chavez Brumell, Chief Executive Officer, Catch the Next; Dr. Anna Alaniz, Faculty/Coordinator, South Texas College; Mr. Juan Higa, Advisor, Alamo District; Dr. Mario Morin, Department Chair Math, South Texas College; and Karen Quiroz, Faculty English/Co-Coordinator, Southwest Texas Junior College.

Presenters spoke about the context behind the Ascender program, in particular the data covering the low percentage of students of color in college and the high percentage of those being placed in developmental programs. They also spoke about the essence of the Ascender program where students earn more degrees and spend less on their education. Details about the Ascender Pathway to Success which includes navigational support, the academic pathway and student engagement were discussed next.  Then participants were led through a sample unit on career planning which included instructional methods and materials.