Puente Project

Improved Academic Performance through Culturally Affirming Support

 Students will demonstrate improvement in academic performance through the utilization of culturally affirming support services, such as mentoring, counseling, and workshops tailored to their unique needs and cultural backgrounds.

Success in Transfer-Level English

Participants in the Puente learning community will be more likely to successfully complete transfer-level English courses compared to non-participants, showcasing the positive impact of the program's intensive academic and cultural support.

The English Component includes rigorous writing practice through a two-year English class sequence taught by the Puente teacher to all Puente students. These classes provide a supportive environment and student-centered curriculum which integrates Latinx and multicultural literature and themes of identity within the framework of college preparatory English classes. Puente English is a UC-recognized a-g course and should be added to your course catalog upon implementation.

Success in Transfer-Level Math

Participants in the Puente learning community will be more likely to successfully complete transfer-level math courses compared to non-participants, demonstrating the program's ability to support students in overcoming barriers to STEM and other transfer pathways. With the continued support of the Puente MAS model. 

Puente MáS is designed for students pursuing a STEM-related major. In addition to taking English and Counseling courses in the first year, like in the Puente Project, Puente MáS students also take precalculus and calculus to build a strong foundation for forthcoming major-prep STEM courses. Both programs match students with a mentor and include visits to four-year colleges and universities, among other extracurricular activities. Puente MáS curriculum, mentoring, and field trips are STEM-focused.

Increased Transfer Pathway Awareness

Students will demonstrate increased awareness and understanding of transfer requirements and academic pathways, with the goal of eliminating gaps in transfer readiness and improving transfer rates. This includes familiarity with university admission requirements, application processes, and financial aid opportunities.

Retention and Persistence

Puente students will exhibit higher retention and persistence rates compared to non-participants, driven by the continuous academic and personal support they receive from program staff, faculty, and mentors.

Development of Leadership and Advocacy Skills

Students will develop leadership skills and the ability to advocate for themselves and others, both in the academic and cultural spheres, through participation in Puente’s leadership training, mentorship opportunities, and community-building activities.

Cultural and Academic Identity Strengthening

Puente students will demonstrate a stronger sense of cultural and academic identity, which is linked to their academic success and overall engagement with college life. This is achieved through culturally responsive curricula, mentoring, and student services that validate students' experiences and heritage.

Increased Engagement with Campus Resources

Students in the Puente Project will engage more frequently with academic support services, including tutoring, writing centers, and advising, utilizing these resources to strengthen their academic foundation and enhance their transfer readiness.

Successful Completion of Milestones Toward Transfer

Puente students will achieve key milestones necessary for transfer, including completing required general education courses, major preparation courses, and other prerequisites for four-year institutions.

Enhanced Community and Peer Support

Puente students will develop stronger community ties and peer support networks, as evidenced by increased participation in study groups, peer mentoring, and program activities. These relationships will contribute to improved academic and emotional resilience.