The Promise of College Access in a Latino Majority Community in San Bernardino County

This dissertation focused on a program created in a community serving a Latino student majority to bring further equity to educational outcomes; specifically, to increase the number of students entering two- and four- year universities. Key purposes of the study included an examination of the strategies employed by this program, an analysis of which strategies are perceived to be most vital by leaders and participants in the program, as well as an inquiry into the development of the partnerships between two school districts, partner universities, local nonprofit organizations, and the business community in the surrounding area. A case-study was conducted which included individual interviews with leaders affiliated with the program and a focus group with college students. Analysis was conducted through the lens of Critical Race Theory. Findings indicated the importance of building collaborative ownership among stakeholders to forge a partnership that honors community needs and boosts student access to equitable outcomes. Recommendations for leaders and practitioners included having all stakeholders take accountability for communicating a college-going message and promoting the program to students and families, as well as truly honoring the needs of the community.