Students in North Dakota, U.S., prepare for success

Location: North Dakota, U.S.

Together with Hess Corporation and a steering committee of state leaders, we are collaborating on Succeed 2020, a bold initiative aimed at helping North Dakota students become better prepared for college and 21st century careers. North Dakota's eight regional education associations (REAs) are leading the project, bringing together school districts and higher education institutions, state and local government, businesses, Native American groups and community-based organizations. FHI 360 staff members are working closely with the REAs and their partners on strategies related to rigorous coursework, ongoing college and career planning, targeted supports (which might include tutoring, specialized counseling or work-based learning opportunities) and use of data. Key indicators of success will include higher college entrance exam scores, higher rates of on-time secondary and postsecondary completion, and reduced need for remedial courses at the postsecondary level. Special emphasis is being placed on closing the achievement gap between Native American students and others in the state.