Early Start

Incoming freshmen for the fall 2012 semester may be entering classrooms early — if they need remediation in math and/or English — as part of an Early Start Program being offered at Cal State Fullerton and mandated by the California State University system.

The CSU Early Start Initiative utilizes an early assessment program test, offered to high school juniors, that alerts students to the possible need for remediation before they graduate from high school. Students can take additional math or writing classes during their senior year, attend remedial courses at a local community college or participate in a CSU campus plan.

Additionally, the CSU has been offering professional development for high school teachers and other educators to inform them about college readiness and strategies designed to prepare students for success in college.

“Numerous studies have shown that the sooner students can be brought up to proficiency levels, the better the chances for their ultimate success,” said Ephraim Smith, executive vice chancellor and chief academic officer for the CSU.

“Over the last five years, the number of students needing remediation on campus has been declining,” said Ed Trotter, acting associate vice president for undergraduate programs. “But our focus is to make sure those that still need help to get up to speed on math and English, get the assistance they need. And we believe that our programs are best for our students.

“This fall, more than 53 percent of incoming Cal State Fullerton freshmen didn’t need any remediation, and 11 percent only needed a brush-up on mathematics through a one-unit, online mathematics course,” Trotter noted. “But of those who did need further assistance, we have been able to help through either a summer-only class, or a combination of one summer and one fall course in either math or English. We’ll also be working with area community colleges so that students who attend courses on their campuses can smoothly transition to Cal State Fullerton.”

Feb. 17, 2011