Successful higher education systems are student-centered and constantly improving. They are also committed to addressing long-standing policies, perspectives, and practices that—intentionally or not— marginalize BILPOC students, students from under-resourced families, and others who were not well served by their earlier education. (BILPOC students are those who identify as Black, Indigenous, Latinx, and/or People of Color.) No Middle Ground helps colleges assess their practices so they can find ways to improve—to identify inequities, address them, and bring everyone at the college into this essential work. Colleges must be bold to do this work effectively because every action either advances the cause of equity or further entrenches inequities. There is no middle ground.
No Middle Ground provides a guide for incorporating equity into CCA’s evidence-based strategies for college completion. The report outlines the importance of language and intentionality in creating programs and policies to disrupt dysfunctional systems and pave the way for all students to complete college. Sections include:
- Why is CCA Focusing on Equity: Successful higher education systems are committed to addressing long-standing policies that marginalize certain students.
- How Do Colleges Address Equity: How do colleges examine current policies and practices to improve outcomes for students who have been historically excluded?
- Why Should Your College Focus on Equity: An overview of reasons to inspire change is provided to explain why the status quo is unacceptable.
- Advancing Equity Through Practice: A detailed guide outlining practices that are essential for higher education systems that want to be student-centered and equity-focused.