Accelerating Academic Literacy: The Commanding English Program for Immigrant Students

Abstract

The University of Minnesota is helping provide greater college access for students from immigrant families who must learn to negotiate a new culture and language as well as manage lives often marked by poverty and under-funded urban schools. In the University's Commanding English program, immigrant high school students study both at their high school and on campus, using advanced coursework that includes immigration literature. Students become familiar with the college environment and build the confidence to consider postsecondary education.