Increasing College Access Network

Our Focus: 

• Create seamless transitions to postsecondary education. Students who participate in dual enrollment are more likely to enroll in college and earn a degree, all while saving time and money. Expanding dual enrollment opportunities and increasing student access is a key strategy in preparing young people for high-wage careers, most of which require a postsecondary credential.
• Foster inclusive environments to improve student outcomes. Social-emotional learning (SEL) enables students to be their authentic selves in the classroom and nurtures a positive sense of self. Incorporating SEL components into classroom environments supports student completion of courses while reinforcing key skills such as critical thinking, self-management, responsible decision-making, and problem-solving. 
• Expand opportunities for students to access dual enrollment. Online learning is an accessible and viable option for students. Providing students with the opportunity to earn college credit online eliminates systemic barriers such as transportation and geographic boundaries. The ICAN model has partnered with community colleges recruiting and admitting students from across Minnesota, with a focus on students experiencing poverty and/or students of color, further expanding the opportunities students have. 
• Develop a strong network of instructors. The ICAN model will foster these inclusive environments by integrating SEL into the curriculum and supporting instructors in implementing effective SEL strategies that encourage engagement and connections among peers. Instructors participate in training and coaching to redesign math and English dual enrollment courses to embed SEL strategies and participate in a community of practice with peers.  

JFF is partnering with the Greater Twin Cities United Way and The Learning Accelerator to provide ICAN instructors with ongoing supports to increase their capacity to teach these courses. American Institutes for Research will lead an evaluation of the ICAN model and its impact on students’ college and career readiness and SEL skills.

Our Goal: 

Create smooth transitions to postsecondary education by increasing authentic learning in online dual enrollment college courses while reimagining what online learning spaces can be.  

Grantees:

Below is a list of current ICAN-awarded colleges and associated partners: 

Alexandria Technical & Community College
Alexandria Technical & Community College, in partnership with Northland Community & Technical College, is serving 275 high school students from over 30 high schools across Minnesota in the fall of 2024.

Minnesota West Community & Technical College
Minnesota West Community & Technical College is serving 126 high school students from 20 high schools across Minnesota in the fall of 2024.