ABSTRACT
This chapter examines what it means to be college ready and provides strategies that can build this in rural youth beginning at an early age. It’s never too soon for students to start thinking about college, the author argues. The chapter provides tips on what students should be doing at a particular grade level, beginning with grade 6 though grade 8. A college-readiness rubric is provided to help guide students toward college readiness. Case studies are provided to help explain how the rubric can be used to identify and work on weak areas. The author highlights the effectiveness of college partnerships in helping rural students become college ready. College partnerships can take shape in many forms, including summer programs, mentor relationships, college visits, and academic partnerships through dual-enrollment courses. Strategies that can be used to develop partnerships are shared at the end of this chapter.
