Austin, TX – July 31, 2006 – A recent study by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board on developmental mathematics reveals a statewide concern: almost one-third of all news students enrolled in Texas public higher education are not prepared for college-level math.

At Austin Community College (ACC), African-American students seem particularly at risk; 58 percent of new African-American students enrolled last fall took at least one developmental math course, an issue the ACC Black Student Success Committee quickly addressed this summer with the creation of Opportunities Unlimited.

Opportunities Unlimited is a two-week, math tutorial program for African-American students. The program provides instruction, tutoring, supplies, testing and feedback to participating students. “Perhaps just as important is the mentoring component,” said Emma Moore, ACC counselor and chair of the committee. “Faculty and staff volunteer to serve as experience guides to struggling students, providing academic advising, moral support, and guidance.”

“This is a serious problem, in that one math course too often determines the fate of a college student,” said Dr. Richard Armenta, associate vice president of student support and success systems. “We believe through intensive tutoring and guidance more African-American students will succeed in math, removing yet another barrier that’s keeping them out of college.”

The successful pilot program, initially offered to 10 students, will be expanded and offered every summer to better prepare students for success when they start the regular fall semester. More information can be obtained by calling the ACC Office of Student Success, (512) 223-7795.

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