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 MADISON — The Urban League of Greater Madison (ULGM) is proud to share initial results from its College Readiness Academies. Between March and June of this year, 73 high school students were provided with 32 hours of free ACT instruction. Post-tests revealed that 72 percent of participating students added an average of 3.22 points to their pre-test score, with the highest increase being seven points.
“This kind of gain is huge for our students, and can be the reason they are admitted into a college,” said Stephen Perez, Director of College Readiness Academies for ULGM. “The positive impact these results can have for our students and their families can’t be overstated, and we look forward to helping as many kids as we can.”
ULGM’s College Readiness Academies ensure that disadvantaged high school students, particularly students of color, have the opportunity to successfully prepare for the ACT college entrance exam, learn about financial aid and the process for applying to college, and matriculate to a college of their choice. The core component of program is high-quality ACT test preparation instruction to provide students with much needed opportunities to develop their core academic skills, take practice tests, and learn test-taking strategies.
Taking the ACT is a standard part of the college admissions process and a higher score makes a student more competitive. Seventy-four percent of the ULGM’s students have already registered for national test dates in the coming academic year and 98 percent of the students who have completed the Academy so far reported that the information received in the Academy increased their understanding of the ACT. Comments on the student reflect this as well:
• “Having somebody help you understand the ACT — which is required by most colleges — made me feel confident.  Thanks for your help.”
• “I learned how to manage my time.”
• “In the ACT Prep class, I've learned about what to expect on the ACT, what I need to be prepared.  Without it, I think I would have struggled on the ACT. I think everyone should take this class.”
• “This was an extremely helpful class. The staff was nice and helpful. Knowing many people in my class helped.”
• “I would recommend this program to my friends.”

Parent engagement is also an important component in the ULGM process. Many requested help with determining their child’s high school course schedules, with evaluating courses already completed and other issues related to their student being ready for college. Parents repeatedly expressed their appreciation for the ULGM program.
 ULGM is currently enrolling students for the next cohort of ACT Prep /College Readiness Academies. A variety of locations and times are available and at no-cost.  The program is open to all students.
Those who plan to take the ACT on September 8, 2012 are encouraged to enroll immediately for the upcoming session.  Applications are due on July 20th, and students must be available to take a practice test on July 21st.
Applications and class schedules are available at the Urban League or at http://www.ulgm.org/cra