Guided Pathways Summit Planned
Save the date: Registration is now open for a Guided Pathways summit scheduled for Jan. 18 in the East Dining Room. The Guided Pathways design team invites the campus community to learn more about the Guided Pathways framework and ways we can better serve our students. Presentations will be made by representatives from the Education Advisory Board, a national research firm, and the California Community Colleges Academic Senate. To register, please view this link: https://goo.gl/forms/elzqVPPmYT1Qc3VS2

Background: In support of the statewide Guided Pathways Initiative, ECC recently established a Guided Pathways design team consisting of faculty, administrators, and students. Team members include: Cesar Jimenez, Counseling; Cindy Lopez, Library; Cynthia Mosqueda, FYE; Lisa Mednick, Professional Development; and Chris Wells, Communication Studies. Using a framework focused on a student-centered approach to institutionwide transformation, the Guided Pathways program is designed to dramatically increase the number of students earning community college degrees and certificates, reduce excess units, shorten the time to earn a degree, and close equity gaps.

Guided Pathways Four Foundational Pillars:

• Clarity: Defining clear pathways for students
• Intake: Directing students as they enter the pathway
• Support: Assisting students to stay on the path
• Learning: Ensuring students are learning while on this pathway to completion

The ECC Guided Pathways program is part of a national effort to improve time to completion for students and is supported by the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office, with $150 million set aside for the colleges. The establishment of the Guided Pathways design team, engaging in training and conversations about Guided Pathways, and conducting an institutional self-assessment regarding guided pathways practices, are the first steps in this initiative.