2021

10 questions with … Victor Montanez

College access organization to change name next spring

PROVIDENCE, R.I.: The College Crusade of Rhode Island, the state’s most comprehensive college readiness program, will change its name and brand identity at the end of the 2021-22 school year and will announce a new name next spring that better aligns with its mission, vision and values.

Over the next several months, the organization will gather feedback and insight from students, alumni, staff and a robust network of supporters whose deep connections to the organization will help inform this new chapter.

The organization, founded in 1989 as the Children’s Crusade for Higher Education, engages students in urban school districts starting in middle school and provides college readiness, career exploration and academic support programming through high school and into college. Advisors work hands-on within schools, inspiring young people to become the first in their families to attend and complete college.

“We have more than 12,000 alumni and 3,500 current students who identify as Crusaders. Our organization has played an important supporting role in their pursuit of higher education and lifelong success over the past 32 years, and we are incredibly proud of that legacy in Rhode Island,” said President and CEO Andrew Bramson. “As we look ahead to a bright future, we want to put the needs and achievements of our first-generation students and families at the center of everything we do, and that should include a name and identity that captures the values by which we live.”

The organization has hired Rhode Island-based firm NAIL as its creative partner, tapping into its extensive experience in helping organizations tell their story.

“The past four years have inspired tremendous learning and growth for our organization, and the pandemic has reinforced with utter clarity that the students we serve are some of the most resilient, gifted and determined young people in our state,” said Meg Geoghegan, chair of the organization’s board of directors. “Our work is about helping students on their journey to college and building their confidence so they can imagine new possibilities for their futures. Our identity should reflect this thoughtful approach that has served so many students and families well over the past three decades.”

Alumni, students and families interested in being involved in this rebranding effort are encouraged to reach out to Kristen Cyr at kcyr@onwardwelearn.org.

“We have a great opportunity to engage our community in this process, simultaneously building awareness and momentum for our mission so that we can continue to do this important work for the next 32 years and beyond,” Bramson said.

The College Crusade supports more than 4,000 students in middle school, high school and college each year with one-on-one advising and year-round programs that focus on academic enrichment, social and emotional development, career education, and postsecondary preparation to help them become the first in their families to earn a college degree. Sixth-graders who attend traditional public schools and select public charter schools and independent schools in Providence, Cranston, Pawtucket, Central Falls, Woonsocket and West Warwick are eligible to enroll in the College Crusade.

Fall programs for high school/programas de otoño para escuela secundaria

To register for high school programs, Victor Montanez at vmontanez@onwardwelearn.org or 401-400-0049.

Para registrarse para las oportunidades de escuela secundaria (grados 9-12), comuníquese con Victor Montanez enviándole un correo electrónico a vmontanez@onwardwelearn.org o llamando al 401-400-0049.

Grades/grados 11-12

College Application Writing 
This program is dedicated to helping 11th and 12th grade Crusaders produce high-quality writing pieces for their college applications, including admissions essays and supplemental application questions. Colleges and universities see writing as the single most important skill students need, and this program will equip them with the confidence and skills to stand out from the rest. This workshop is designed to give writing abilities a boost in a short period of time and will help students produce competitive college writing submissions. We urge Crusaders to take advantage of this opportunity, as it will help alleviate the anxiety around the college application process. 

Program details: 
Saturdays, 9 a.m. – noon 
Oct. 2 – Dec. 11 (off on Nov. 27) 
Juanita Sanchez Education Complex 

Redacción de solicitud universitaria
Este programa está dedicado a ayudar a los Crusaders de los grados 11 y 12 a producir piezas de escritura de alta calidad para sus solicitudes universitarias, como ensayos de admisión y preguntas de solicitud complementarias. Los colegios y universidades ven la escritura como la habilidad más importante que necesitan los estudiantes, y este programa los equipará con la confianza y las habilidades para destacarse del resto. Este taller está diseñado para dar un impulso a las habilidades de escritura en un corto período de tiempo y ayudará a los estudiantes a producir solicitudes universitarias competitivas. Animamos a los Crusaders a que aprovechen esta oportunidad, ya que ayudará a aliviar la ansiedad en torno al proceso de solicitud de ingreso a la universidad.

Detalles del programa:
Sábados, de 9 a.m. a mediodía
2 de octubre – 11 de diciembre (descuento el 27 de noviembre)
Juanita Sanchez Education Complex 

Grades/grados 9-12

Media Literacy 
Media Literacy encourages people to ask questions about what they watch, hear and read on TV, the internet, in books, magazines, radio, and in newspapers. Crusaders will engage in social media critiques, class discussions, small group work, and much more. This program is designed to be hands on and help build critical thinking skills, improve ability to ask questions, analyze text and visual examples, and develop a strong voice to stand out in today’s society. Crusaders will be able to analyze a broad spectrum of media messages and feel more confident in persuasive writing in a computer-interactive environment. 

Program details: 
Saturdays, 9 a.m. – noon 
Oct. 2 – Dec. 11 (off on Nov. 27) 
Juanita Sanchez Education Complex 

La alfabetización mediática
La alfabetización mediática anima a las personas a hacer preguntas sobre lo que ven, escuchan y leen en la televisión, el internet, libros, revistas, radio y periódicos. Los Crusaders participarán de discusiones en clase, trabajo en grupos pequeños y mucho más. Este programa está diseñado para ser práctico y ayudar a desarrollar habilidades de pensamiento crítico y analizar plataformas de redes sociales. Los Crusaders estarán en capacidad de analizar un amplio espectro de mensajes de los medios y de sentirse más seguros en la escritura persuasiva en un entorno interactivo por computadora.

Detalles del programa:
Sábados, de 9 a.m. a mediodía
2 de octubre – 11 de diciembre (descuento el 27 de noviembre)
Juanita Sanchez Education Complex

Math Academy 
The Math Academy provides support for high school Crusaders who feel less confident in their math coursework. Our goal is to ensure that each Crusader has a chance to practice key foundational skills to become more successful math students, problem-solvers, and critical thinkers. Instructors will split the groups up based on need for Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2 skills. They will also provide individualized learning opportunities, engage the Crusaders in teamwork, and incorporate hands-on math activities. 

Program details: 
Saturdays, 9 a.m. – noon 
Oct. 2 – Dec. 11 (off on Nov. 27) 
Central High School 

Academia de Matemáticas
La Academia de Matemáticas brinda apoyo a los Crusaders que se sienten menos seguros en sus cursos de matemáticas. Nuestro objetivo es asegurar de que cada Crusader tenga la oportunidad de practicar habilidades fundamentales clave con el fin de convertirse en estudiantes de matemáticas, solucionadores de problemas y pensadores críticos más exitosos. Los instructores no solo brindarán oportunidades de aprendizaje individualizadas, sino que también involucrarán a los Crusaders en el trabajo en equipo y en juegos y actividades de matemáticas prácticas.

Detalles del programa:
Sábados, de 9 a.m. a mediodía
2 de octubre – 11 de diciembre (descuento el 27 de noviembre)
Central High School

College Visits/Fair
College visits provide Crusaders with the opportunity to get firsthand information about many colleges in New England. Crusaders are provided with campus tours, information sessions facilitated by admissions and financial aid representatives, BIPOC and Crusader alumni student panels, and more.    
At the fair, Crusaders will have the opportunity to gather a plethora of information from over 200 colleges and universities. College admissions reps can answer questions related to their institutions and the application process. Crusaders must attend at least one college fair junior year. 
*This year, these opportunities may be provided virtually for safety reasons.

Program details: 
Virtual and/or in-person offering 
October – December

Visitas universitarias/Feria
Las visitas a las universidades brindan a los Crusaders la oportunidad de obtener información de primera mano sobre muchas universidades de Nueva Inglaterra. Los Crusaders reciben recorridos por el campus, sesiones de información facilitadas por representantes de admisiones y ayuda financiera, paneles de exalumnos Crusaders, Crusaders negros, indígenas o de color (BIPOC, por su sigla en inglés) y más.
En la feria, los Crusaders tendrán la oportunidad de recopilar una gran cantidad de información de más de 200 universidades. Los representantes de admisiones universitarias pueden responder preguntas relacionadas con sus instituciones y el proceso de solicitud. Los Crusaders deben asistir por lo menos a una feria universitaria en el grado 11.
*Este año, estas oportunidades se pueden brindar virtualmente por razones de seguridad.

Detalles del programa:
Oferta virtual y/o presencial
Octubre – diciembre

W.O.K.E. Athletes
College Crusade Student Athletes: Words of Knowledge Empower (W.O.K.E.) Athletes Mentorship Program’s mission is to educate the Crusade athletic community on how to appreciate, support, and leverage diverse identities as a pathway to success. Bryant student-athletes will help our Crusader athletes to advocate for the resources required to ensure student athletes are successful academically, professionally, and holistically, and to serve prospective student athletes in local communities as part of completing a 360 Mentorship Program.

Program details:
TBD, advisors to provide details to those interested
Bryant University, Smithfield, R.I.

Atletas W.O.K.E.
College Crusade Student Athletes: Words of Knowledge Empower (W.O.K.E.) La misión del programa de mentores de atletas es educar a la comunidad atlética de Crusade sobre cómo apreciar, apoyar y aprovechar las diversas identidades como un camino hacia el éxito. Los estudiantes-atletas de Bryant ayudarán a nuestros atletas Crusader a abogar por los recursos necesarios para garantizar que los estudiantes atletas tengan éxito académica, profesional y holísticamente, además de servir a los futuros estudiantes atletas en las comunidades locales como parte de la realización de un programa de mentoría 360.

Detalles del programa:
Por determinarse, asesores para brindar detalles a los interesados
Bryant University, Smithfield, R.I.

First Gen Day 
First Gen Day is a virtual event intended to engage Crusaders in a series of activities celebrating being the first generation in their families going to college. Crusaders will gain knowledge and develop skills to be successful in college and in life and hear from motivational speakers to boost their morale and re-ignite their enthusiasm about the journey to postsecondary success. 

Program details: 
Nov. 8
Virtual 

El Día de la Primera Generación
El Día de la Primera Generación (First Gen Day) es un evento virtual cuyo fin es involucrar a los Crusaders en una serie de actividades para celebrar a quienes son la primera generación de sus familias que va a la universidad. Los Crusaders obtendrán conocimientos y desarrollarán habilidades para tener éxito en la universidad y en la vida y escucharán a oradores motivacionales con el fin de elevar su moral y reavivar su entusiasmo por el camino hacia el éxito postsecundario.

Detalles del programa:
8 de noviembre
Virtual

Grade/grado 12

FSA ID Night 
Students and their parents will join the Crusade to create their FSA ID, a unique ID necessary to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is used to determine federal funding for college. This ID will be used to access the student’s FAFSA and to complete other federal aid documents. Please have Social Security number, personal email, and mobile number ready. 
*This is an important part of the process for applying for financial aid. 

Program details: 
5 – 8 p.m. 
Sept. 27, in person at 134 Thurbers Ave., Suite 111, Providence
Sept. 28, virtual

Noche de la FSA ID
Los estudiantes y sus padres se unirán a la Crusade para crear su FSA ID, una identificación única necesaria para completar la Solicitud Gratuita de Ayuda Federal para Estudiantes (FAFSA, por su sigla en inglés), que se utiliza para determinar los fondos federales para la universidad. Esta identificación se utilizará para acceder a la FAFSA del estudiante y para completar otros documentos de ayuda federal. Ten listo el número de seguro social, el correo electrónico personal y el número de teléfono móvil.
*Esta es una parte importante del proceso para solicitar ayuda financiera.

Detalles del programa:
5 a 8 p.m.
27 de septiembre, en persona en 134 Thurbers Ave., Suite 111, Providence
28 de septiembre, virtual

FASFA Night 
Senior year is here and deadlines for financial aid and college applications will approach quickly, but the College Crusade is here to help! The Crusade staff will help you and your parent(s) understand and complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which will provide eligible students federal aid for college and help determine eligibility for institutional aid. Have your taxes, FSA ID created, and other income documents ready and let us help you navigate this process. 
*Please be sure to join one of the FSA ID Nights! 

Program details: 
5 – 8 p.m. 
Oct. 12 and Oct. 21, in person at 134 Thurbers Ave., Suite 111, Providence
Oct. 14 and Oct. 26, virtual

Noche FAFSA
El último año está aquí y las fechas límite para solicitar ayuda financiera y aplicar a la universidad se acercan rápidamente, ¡pero College Crusade está aquí para ayudar! El equipo de Crusade te ayudará a ti y a tus padres a comprender y completar tu Solicitud Gratuita de Ayuda Federal para Estudiantes (FAFSA), que proporcionará a los estudiantes elegibles ayuda federal para la universidad y ayudará a determinar si son elegibles para recibir ayuda institucional. Ten listos tus impuestos, crea la FSA ID y otros documentos de ingreso y permítenos ayudarte a navegar a través de este proceso.
*¡Por favor, asegura tu asistencia a una de las noches de identificación de la FSA ID!

Detalles del programa:
5 a 8 p.m.
12 y 21 de octubre, en persona en 134 Thurbers Ave., Suite 111, Providence
14 y 26 de octubre, virtual

Fall programs for middle school/programas de otoño para escuela intermedia

To register for middle school programs, contact Sarah Lessard at slessard@onwardwelearn.org.

Para registrarse para las oportunidades de escuela intermedia (grados 6-8), comuníquese con Sarah Lessard enviándole un correo electrónico a slessard@onwardwelearn.org.

Grades/grados 6-7

Launch 
This program is designed to welcome all new Crusaders to the College Crusade. Learn about the Crusade, meet our advisors, and discover the fun ways of enhancing your study skills! 
*There was a session of this offered in summer 2021. Crusaders only participate once. 

Program details: 
Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. 
October and November 
Location TBD 

Lanzamiento
Este programa está diseñado para dar la bienvenida a todos los nuevos Crusaders a la College Crusade. ¡Aprende sobre Crusade, conoce a los asesores y descubre las formas divertidas de mejorar tus habilidades de estudio!
* Una sesión de esto se ofreció en el verano de 2021. Los Crusaders solo participan una vez.

Detalles del programa:
Sábados, de 9:30 a.m. a 2 p.m.
Octubre y noviembre
Ubicación por determinar

Grade/grado 8

High School Selection Day 
This one-day program offering includes workshops focused on the exciting and important process of selecting a high school. Eighth graders will learn about the different types of high schools available to them based on what district they go to. We will also talk about graduation requirements, senior portfolios, and key differences about middle and high school. 

Program details: 
Saturdays, 9 a.m. – noon
November and December
Location TBD 

Día de selección de la escuela secundaria
Esta oferta de programa de un día incluye talleres enfocados en el proceso emocionante e importante que es seleccionar un colegio. Los estudiantes de octavo grado aprenderán sobre los diferentes tipos de escuelas secundarias que están disponibles, según el distrito al que asisten. También hablaremos de los requisitos de graduación, los portafolios de estudiantes de último año y las diferencias clave entre la escuela intermedia y la secundaria.

Detalles del programa:
Sábados, de 9 a.m. a mediodía
Noviembre y diciembre
Ubicación por determinar

Grades/grados 6-8

Crusade Adventure and Academic Program (CAAP) 
This popular and long-running Crusade Adventure and Academic Program will challenge middle-school learners to explore, solve problems, develop critical thinking skills, and have FUN. Participants embark on a variety of (occasionally ridiculous) investigations, activities, tasks, and stunts that require them to collaborate, set goals, and get creative, then connect what they’re learning to their homes, schools, and communities. Participants also work directly with college-aged student mentors, explore justice-based leadership topics, and build foundational literacy and discussion-based skills. 
*Each Crusader can complete this program only once. 

Program details: 
Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 
Oct. 2 – Dec. 11 (off on Nov. 27) 
Roger Williams Middle School 

Programa académico y aventura Crusade (CAAP)
Este popular y exitoso Programa académico y aventura Crusade desafiará a los estudiantes de secundaria a explorar, resolver problemas, desarrollar habilidades de pensamiento crítico y divertirse. Los participantes se embarcan en una variedad de (ocasionalmente graciosas) investigaciones, actividades, tareas y acrobacias que les exigen colaborar, establecer metas y ser creativos para luego conectar lo que están aprendiendo con sus hogares, escuelas y comunidades. Los participantes también trabajan directamente con mentores en edad universitaria, exploran temas de liderazgo basados en la justicia y desarrollan habilidades básicas de alfabetización y discusión.
*Cada Crusader puede completar este programa solo una vez.

Detalles del programa:
Sábados, de 9 a.m. a 3 p.m.
2 de octubre – 11 de diciembre (desactivado el 27 de noviembre)
Roger Williams Middle School

Cru Club (after school) 
After-school Cru Club is offered at each advisor-led school as an extended learning opportunity. Students will meet and get to know fellow Crusaders and advisors. Advisors will select which curriculum is offered. Cru Club workshops can include STEM, financial literacy, homework help, tutoring, life skills, and early college knowledge. 
*Each opportunity will be provided by your own advisor. 
*Mystic Aquarium will be part of these offerings virtually! 

Program details: 
Virtual and in person at your school 
October through December

Cru Club (después de clases)
El Cru Club después de la escuela se ofrece en cada colegio dirigido por un asesor como una oportunidad de aprendizaje extendida. Los estudiantes se reunirán y conocerán a otros Crusaders y asesores. Los asesores seleccionarán qué plan de estudios se ofrece. Los talleres del Cru Club pueden incluir STEM, educación financiera, ayuda con las tareas, tutoría, habilidades para la vida y conocimientos universitarios tempranos.
*Tu propio asesor te brindará cada oportunidad. ¡Mystic Aquarium será una de estas ofertas virtualmente!

Detalles del programa:
Virtual y presencial en tu escuela
De octubre a diciembre

Media Literacy 
Media literacy encourages people to ask questions about what they watch, hear and read on TV, the internet, in books, magazines, radio, and in newspapers. Crusaders will engage in class discussions, small group work, and much more. This program is designed to be hands on and help build critical thinking skills and analyze social media platforms. Crusaders will be able to analyze a broad spectrum of media messages and feel more confident in persuasive writing in a computer-interactive environment. 

Program details: 
Saturdays, 9 a.m. – noon 
Oct. 2 – Dec. 11 (off on Nov. 27) 
Juanita Sanchez Education Complex 

Detalles del programa:
Sábados, de 9 a.m. a mediodía
2 de octubre – 11 de diciembre (descuento el 27 de noviembre)
Juanita Sanchez Education Complex

Math Academy 
The Math Academy provides support for Crusaders who feel less confident in their math coursework. Our goal is to ensure that each Crusader has a chance to practice key foundational skills to become more successful math students, problem-solvers, and critical thinkers. The instructors will not only provide individualized learning opportunities but will engage the Crusaders in teamwork and hands-on math games and activities! 

Program details: 
Saturdays, 9 a.m. – noon 
Oct. 2 – Dec. 11 (off on Nov. 27) 
Central High School 

Academia de Matemáticas
La Academia de Matemáticas brinda apoyo a los Crusaders que se sienten menos seguros en sus cursos de matemáticas. Nuestro objetivo es asegurar que cada Crusader tenga la oportunidad de practicar habilidades fundamentales clave con el fin de convertirse en estudiantes de matemáticas, solucionadores de problemas y pensadores críticos más exitosos. Los instructores no solo brindarán oportunidades de aprendizaje individualizadas, ¡sino que también involucrarán a los Crusaders en el trabajo en equipo y en juegos y actividades de matemáticas práctica

Detalles del programa:
Sábados, de 9 a.m. a mediodía
2 de octubre – 11 de diciembre (descuento el 27 de noviembre)
Central High School 

College Visits/Tours 
College Crusade middle school advisors will lead students on virtual tours of local colleges/universities and provide information about academic programs offered, student-to-professor ratio, student life, and financial aid information. Tours are interactive, with opportunities for students to ask questions, participate in fun quizzes about the institutions and more. 

Program details: 
Virtual late afternoon offerings
October – December

Visitas/Tours universitarios
Los asesores de las escuelas intermedias de College Crusade guiarán a los estudiantes en recorridos virtuales por las universidades locales y proporcionarán información acerca de los programas académicos ofrecidos, la proporción de estudiantes por profesor, la vida estudiantil y la información sobre ayuda financiera. Los recorridos son interactivos, con oportunidades para que los estudiantes hagan preguntas, participen en divertidos cuestionarios sobre las instituciones y más.

Detalles del programa:
Ofertas virtuales al final de la tarde
Octubre – diciembre

Career Exploration (speaker series) 
Crusaders will explore careers and learn about educational requirements for different fields by listening to career speakers in a variety of fields. They also can ask questions about career and educational choices. 

Program details: 
Virtual late afternoon offerings
October – December

 Exploración profesional (serie para oradores)
Los Crusaders explorarán carreras y aprenderán acerca de los requisitos educativos para diferentes campos, escuchando a oradores profesionales en una variedad de campos. También pueden hacer preguntas sobre opciones profesionales y educativas.

Detalles del programa:
Ofertas virtuales al final de la tarde
Octubre – diciembre

United vision

Learning for Life helps RIC students succeed

Learning for Life is a program at Rhode Island College that allows students to connect with resources for their needs. The Postsecondary team at the College Crusade and Joise Garzon and La Tanya Monteiro from L4L recently talked about the program’s mission, goals, and outcomes.

What is Learning for Life and its main purpose?

Learning for Life is an office in a student success division at Rhode Island College and our mission is to connect students on and off campus resources to help them overcome any of the life barriers that get in the way of their education. It may include access to basic needs navigating the campus systems, connecting with folks, or managing competing priorities right and everything in between. The way that we deliver those services is through our peer mentor ship model. We have trained undergrad and graduate-level students. Most of them are from the School of Social Work program but we also have students from all different programs and different helping fields, and they are the ones who deliver individualized support to each student we serve. Our goal is to retain students to help them achieve their level of success, and it means a different thing for different people.

How was the program L4L formed? Has it changed direction from when it first began?

In 2012 all the Rhode Island state colleges were given a five-year CAC grant. Rhode Island College decided to create Learning for Life with founding partners the College Crusade, College Visions and Goodwill of Rhode Island. It started with the goal to get about 150 students connected with us or maybe even less than that, but it is 1,562 at this point. Those students make about 20% of the RIC population.

In general, what characteristics define the students who first come into L4L?

At the beginning, Learning for Life had qualifiers to participate; students had to be Pell eligible, and they had to meet certain criteria, whether it was that they were an adult learner, a primary caretaker, their first language was not English, or a first-gen student. Since 2017, we have transitioned away from that because our persistence numbers were showing that students receiving our services persist at higher rates than the rest of the RIC population. The college took us on as a department and so we are no longer a grant program. Fifty-five percent of the scholars we served this past year were Pell eligible and 63 percent of the students we served identified as either Black, indigenous, or people of color. Thirty-one percent of the scholars we served are adult learners as well, and we’ve been seeing that number increase. There’s more state funding and there’s more of a push from the state to get adult learners to get back into college and finish their degrees. We have an even number of first-year sophomore, junior, and senior students. We also serve graduate-level students, which is different because there really isn’t a place on our campus that is like a go-to just for them besides the graduate students’ office. Our top majors line up with RIC’s top majors, nursing and nursing-intended students. Most of our students come from there as well as from social work, education, psychology, justice studies and then we have some biology, art, studio, accounting, and youth development.

What specific strategies do you use with students to guide them toward their individual goals?

It’s all about the relationship and rapport building with students because the students are not going to open up their life to you if they don’t trust you. Initially students come in for all varied reasons and a lot of the time it’s financial. Once you start to build that rapport with the student, all the other factors come into the conversation. They start to realize that you are not trying to push them off. We try to be mindful that adult learners are juggling a lot of things, so if they are facing a barrier, we’re able to help them overcome that or help them connect them to the resources they need. We understand that they might not want to be checking in every week because they don’t have time for that. Our model is very flexible and it’s really up to the students how frequently they want to check in with us. We do follow up frequently with them regardless of whether they are following up with us because our data has shown that they need to know that someone cares about them and that someone is sending them resources. We have had scholars email us saying. “Thank you; sometimes it was annoying but now I need something and I know you’re here for me because you have been there all along.” We are trying to build our resources for child care. We often bring in people from the outside to conduct workshops about building a house, building credit because we understand that everything is academic. We mainly try to connect them with the resources all in one place so that it is one less place they have to go.

Define the Navigator Model that is used in the program and how does it differ from student to student?

Our educational support coordinators (ESC) oversee our Navigators. They coordinate project objectives including outreach to students, the development of marketing materials, communications, and collaborative initiatives. Our Navigators have supervision every two weeks to help them learn about the resources as well as helping them to connect to different students. Navigators help in any way to connect students to resources on and off campus. We also guide Navigators toward the way to reach out to different students in case they are not opening up. We talk about our options when a student is not responding and usually target our issues right at the beginning so we make sure that they are building the rapport and starting the connection with their students. Also, we also reach out to the student in case they want to change their Navigator or if there is anything else they need to focus on. It is a web of building trust from the beginning until they are done working with us.

What are some of the major changes that are seen because of L4L?

Ashley Davega, Crusade College Success Coach at RIC: Students are often coming in nervous and afraid of this new experience in this new space. The first thing students have told me (prior to COVID) was about walking in and feeling comfortable and safe. You have someone who is sitting at the front desk, and it is a student. You don’t feel so bogged down and afraid as many students do. A lot of my students are going to have me, and they are going to have a Navigator, so once they start connecting with the Navigators and me it really does form a beautiful bridge that helps the students get that all-around help. I can emotionally support a student as much as possible, but the Navigators are studying on how to help them. It strengthens our relationship there with them in the Crusade because I’m still their new advisor going in. We have this triangle support, and our relationship strengthens. I was working with one student trying to help with FAFSA issues and I’m thinking of the amount of comfort she felt with her Navigator being there and how she felt that triangle of like trust, which helped her get through this really tough time. I could understand her from a FASFA point of view since I know how it works, but the Navigator understood her emotional frustrations, her home frustrations. I may even understand all sides of her problem; I was her age and in the same place as her. Students have a feeling of trust and comfort in being able to just say whatever they want. I see students opening up and being able to communicate more, having a better flow and I think that some of the things that we experience as first-generation students and their families, as well sharing information that is personal, is very difficult – whether it be tax information because of FAFSA or just something going on at home that is preventing them from moving forward. We talked about students who are parents, and some of our Navigators can relate to them.

La Tanya: Working with the College Crusade and our additional partners has helped us send the message to our students that we do not know everything, but we are always going to connect you to people who do. We might not be familiar with all the areas that one student might need help with, but we are able to make those connections that will get students where they need to go. It shows them that it is not a problem to ask for help and that it is OK to have that web of help. Especially for first generation students, it shows them that sometimes it is OK to reach out. Sometimes they think that they are responsible for knowing everything and that is not the case. When our students see that even the professionals are asking for help outside of themselves, it is powerful.

Joise: One of the main changes that I have seen through the program as most students are coming in with very little social capital and they leave the program having multiple connections in each area. Another change that I have seen through this program is that students often internalize their problems, and they start to think that their issues often come because of something that they are doing wrong when in reality they start to notice that they are working in an unfair system. Students start to see that their environment and their systems also play a part in who they are. Also, they start advocating for themselves, and they gain more independence. As they do that, they also tend encourage other students to have the same behavior.

What makes L4L stand out from other college programs?

La Tanya: We hold true to our Navigator Model and its holistic aspect. We always refer to the student; it is very effective and I feel like it makes us stand out. We always evaluate ourselves or have ourselves evaluated. To be put under a microscope is not always comfortable but we know that to do what we do and do it the way we should be doing it evaluation is the only way to go about that.

Joise: College Crusade, College Visions, and Learning for Life operate somewhat in the same way. Students are not empty vessels. They are not coming to us knowing nothing. They have their own cultural wheel and their own knowledge that they are bringing to our work together. That’s the reason why we call them scholars, because we believe that they’re an expert in their own life and in different things, too. We want to take that in and not just see them as their GPA or their status as a first-gen student or any of that. We want to learn from them see them holistically. A big part of what we do is assessment. We assess first and think about what they are already connected to, what are their strengths, what do they have going on, who’s in their support circle and so on. We gather this information first, and then we work with them from there to build their goals. I feel like that differentiates us on our campuses; we spend a lot of time on our assessments and then build bold up from there.

If you could say anything to a student thinking of joining L4L, what would you say?

Joise: I would just say you know you do not have to do this alone when you have a whole team of people ready and prepared to help you in whatever that looks like. Whether that means a chat or you have a big barrier you are trying to overcome, “use us” is what I would say.

LaTonya: I would typically tell students that no one gets anywhere by themselves so why should you get through college on your own. My own child received a Navigator when they were a freshman at RIC so that really tells you a lot about the way I believe in my office as well as how we work.

Ashley: For our Crusaders I would say that some of them think, “I’m a Crusader so it’s OK, I got this.” It’s a great way to think but I also would want them to know that L4L is a great program and that you can be part of both. It is all about building that connection and that web of social capital to guide you to success.

10 questions with … Belisa Nunez

1. What do you enjoy most about working with college students?

I love seeing the crossroads of where they stand, they are adults but also have plenty of growth ahead of them and they don’t always realize it. Seeing that always helps to put my growth in perspective. I think back to when I was a college student and thought I had done a lot of growing and compare it to now. The two are worlds apart. Then I bring it to the now; I feel like I’ve grown, I still have a long way to go even when I don’t realize it.

2. Not long before we closed the office, you had a baby! What family traditions are you looking forward to carrying on with her as she grows up?

I did! I can’t believe she’s already a year and half. That’s how I track pandemic time and it still blows my mind! The holidays have always been a big deal in my family. We celebrate Christmas Eve with a huge dinner, Christmas day with brunch and dinner, New Year’s Eve with another massive dinner and New Year’s Day with lunch. Wow! That’s a lot of eating on our part. I plan to keep all of those traditions as she gets older. The food, the laughs, the Christmas music, the tree … AH MAGIC!

3. Summer is finally here! What is your favorite thing about/to do during summer in Rhode Island?

Speaking of traditions … during the summer we LOVE going to Iggy’s. Last year when the world was starting to open up again it was one of the few activities we could do to get out of the house safely. We would do mobile order and sit in the car in front of the ocean and eat our food. Calamari, chowder, clam cakes … can you tell I’m a foodie? I always tell my husband it makes me sad to think some people have never seen the ocean. It’s so magical! Anyways as I was saying, sitting in front of the ocean, eating chowder with my family, what’s more “Summer in Rhode Island” than that?

4. What is the first album/cassette/CD/digital download you bought?

This question makes me laugh because I think about it often. When I was 6 my aunt got married and before going on her honeymoon, she asked me what I wanted her to bring me back as a gift. I asked for a Mana cassette. For those of you who don’t know, Mana is a well-known band in the Latin music world that most 6-year-olds did not listen to; they still don’t. My family always said I was born 30 at heart which I guess would make me about 60 now. My aunt bought me the cassette and little self couldn’t believe it. I listened to that cassette more times than I could count. Go listen to it yourself! “Sueños Liquidos,” Mana.

5. Do you have any hobbies?

I love interior decorating! I think that counts as a hobby. Any time friends or family are redecorating I’m right there with them creating inspiration boards and looking for furniture and décor nonstop. If I wasn’t in this field I would be an interior decoration for sure! In case interior decorating doesn’t count, I love reading. No deep books that teach me great life lessons, just pure lighthearted entertainment.

6. Do you like to cook? What is your favorite meal?

I’ve learned to love to cook in the past two years. Before that I despised being in the kitchen and everything I made was pretty mediocre. Now I’ve learned to enjoy creating dishes, following recipes, learning about spices, and mixing textures and flavors. I can’t believe that’s me now. Food doesn’t have to be difficult to be delicious! Stop being afraid of “weird combinations”; if a recipe recommends it, it typically works. As for my favorite meal? I have too many to count by let me give you my favorite burger combo: Brioche bun, patty, American cheese, bacon, pineapple, onion ring and BBQ sauce. YUM!

7. What is your favorite vacation destination or memory?

In case you didn’t catch it before, I love the ocean. Although, not all beaches are created equal! Sue me! I used to dream about a beach that had clear warm waters, white sand, no seaweed or sea creatures nearby and then I didn’t have to dream about it anymore because I found it! Several years ago, I was on a cruise, and they stopped at Half Moon Cay, a non-inhabited Bahamian Island. You guys! It was the beach of my dreams and no other beach has come close yet. Go visit!

8. What’s your life motto or favorite saying?

Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right. That’s a quote by Henry Ford that has stuck with me since high school. It was actually my senior quote. I’m a strong believer in speaking things into existence and it’s actually a psychology theory! It’s called a self-fulfilling prophecy. Don’t believe me? Look it up. This doesn’t happen because the words will magically make it happen but because you will start to take small actions toward whatever it is you are putting out into the world. Want an example? Say you have an exam coming up and although you have done average in the class so far you decide this will be the exam you ace. You are determined to get an “A” no matter what. The fact that you decided this will influence your decisions moving forward. Maybe now you will incorporate extra study time or you decide to go to office hours. Maybe you’ll look up videos on the material and actually read the textbook. Like actually. This all makes you more likely to get that “A” you said you would get. So like I said, it’s not magic, it’s all you and what you make of it.

9. What was your favorite game to play as a child?

Unpopular opinion: I loved Monopoly and still do! Most people cringe when I say that but after years of intense research – I even wrote a peer reviewed article on this (I’m kidding) – I’ve concluded that this is because people don’t play by the rules! When you don’t play Monopoly by the WRITTEN rules the games takes forever and usually never ends. Go do yourself a favor, go read the instructions manual, don’t make side deals, and finish your first game. P.S. I do not take responsibility and I’m not to be held liable for any terminated relationships while you’re playing said game. Do so at your own risk.

10. Aside from people, what’s one thing you won’t take a trip without?

Besides my phone because communication, a fan. Yes, I know I’m a weird potato. I need the constant sound in the background to help me sleep and no, a sound machine doesn’t do it for me. I also need the air flow and cooling factor. Don’t worry I don’t carry around a giant box fan, just a small travel sized one. No judging, people! Or do, I’m still going to travel with my fan regardless. 😀

Programa de verano de seguridad COVID-19

Ver esta guía en inglés/View this guide in English

Prueba Diaria de Seguridad
Todos los estudiantes y personal deben completar una prueba diara usando el aplicativo “CRUSH COVID RI” antes de atender un programa de verano presencial. Por favor completa “Mi Diario de Síntomas” cada mañana, contestando honestamente las preguntas por cada infante que participa. Publicaremos una auto-confirmación (En inglés y español) y llevaremos a cabo pruebas verbales en cada programa.

Vacunaciones
Recomendamos encarecidamente que tú y tus familiares reciban una vacuna contra el COVID-19 cuanto antes. La información acerca de cómo conseguir tu vacuna está disponible en reopeningri.com. Si bien las vacunas no son un requerimiento en este momento, algunas instalaciones del campus universitario requerirán que sus participantes estén vacunados. Alertaremos a las familias de esos posibles requerimientos lo más pronto posible. Es posible que no brindemos acomodaciones de programación virtual a estudiantes sin vacunar a los programas que requieran un estado de vacunación completo.

Pruebas
College Crusade no requerirá o proveerá pruebas COVID-19 como una condición para participar. Las pruebas están ampliamente disponibles por todo el estado; encuentra más información en reopeningri.com.

Uso de Tapabocas
El uso del tapabocas será obligatorio cuando los estudiantes y el personal estén en espacios cerrados, incluyendo los buses. Cuando los estudiantes y el personal estén por fuera, el uso de tapabocas será opcional para todos.

Distanciamiento
Cumpliremos con la normatividad de distanciamiento del estado tanto para espacios abiertos como cerrados, dentro de grupos y entre los mismos.

Grupos Estables Durante los Programas
Los estudiantes serán agrupados al comienzo de cada sesión del programa y permanecerán en estos grupos durante la sesión. Esto nos permite manejar espacios efectivamente, operar actividades de manera segura, y realizar localización de contactos adecuadamente si es necesario.

Localización de Contactos para Contactos Cercanos
En la eventualidad de un caso de COVID-19 positivo de un estudiante o un miembro del personal durante el programa, el Departamento de Salud de Rhode Island realizará la localización de contactos requerida. Hemos registrado nuestros programas de verano con el Departamento y acataremos sus directrices en cuanto a la cuarentena de contactos cercanos. Por favor, ten en cuenta que los protocolos de cuarentena actuales difieren, dependiendo del estado de vacunación. Tener una vacunación completa significa que probablemente puedas continuar participando en el programa aún si se registra un caso positivo durante el mismo.

Higiene de Manos y Etiqueta Respiratoria
Todos los participantes tendrán acceso a desinfectante de manos y baños para lavarse las manos. El personal de College Crusade y sus estudiantes deben cubrir la tos y los estornudos con un pañuelo, botarlo a la basura y lavarse las manos inmediatamente con agua y jabón al menos durante veinte segundos.

Punto de Contacto Sanitario
Todo programa de College Crusade tendrá un miembro del personal asignado a ser el punto de contacto sanitario, con la respectiva autorización de definir si un estudiante debe ser recogido debido a síntomas de COVID-19 o no.

Aislamiento y Recogida de Estudiantes Exhibiendo Síntomas de COVID-19
En la eventualidad de que un estudiante comience a presentar síntomas de COVID-19, se aislará al estudiante del resto del grupo. Se contactará al padre/guardián inmediatamente para que recoja al estudiante cuanto antes.

Plano de Asientos
Para poder asistir con la Localización de Contactos, se desarrollarán e implementarán planos de asientos para buses y aulas de clase.

Limpieza
Los protocolos de limpieza se determinarán a raíz de las conversaciones que tengamos con nuestras organizaciones aliadas.

Visitantes
Para reducir el riesgo de exposición y contagio, los programas de College Crusade limitarán visitantes externos. Cualquier visitante deberá completar una prueba diaria y acatar las reglas y protocolos referentes al uso del tapabocas y distanciamiento.

Summer program COVID-19 safety

View this guide in Spanish/Ver esta guía en español

Daily Safety Screening
All students and staff must complete a daily screening using the “CRUSH COVID RI” app before attending an in-person summer program. Please complete “My Symptom Diary” every morning, answering questions honestly, for each participating child. We will post a self-attestation (in English and Spanish) and will conduct a verbal screening at each program.

Vaccinations
We strongly encourage you and your families to receive a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible. Information about getting your vaccine is available at reopeningri.com. While vaccinations are not required at this time, some college campus sites may require participants to be vaccinated. We will alert families as soon as possible about any such requirements. We may not provide virtual programming accommodations to unvaccinated students unable to participate in programs where fully vaccinated status is required.

Testing
The College Crusade will not require or provide COVID-19 testing as a condition of program participation. Tests are widely available through the state; find more information at reopeningri.com.

Mask Wearing
Masks will be required whenever students and staff are indoors, including on buses. When students and staff are outside, masks are optional for all.

Distancing
We will comply with the state’s regulations for distancing both indoors and outdoors, within groups, and among groups.

Stable Groups During Programs
Students will be grouped at the start of each program session and remain in these groups during the session. This allows us to effectively manage spaces, safely operate activities, and properly conduct contact tracing if necessary.

Contact Tracing for Close Contacts
In the event of a positive COVID-19 case of a student and/or staff during the program, the Rhode Island Department of Health will conduct the requisite contact tracing. We have registered our summer programs with the department and will closely adhere to its guidelines regarding quarantining for close contacts. Please note that current quarantine protocols differ depending on vaccinated status; being fully vaccinated means that you are likely to be able to continue to participate even if there is a positive case during the program.

Hand Hygiene and Respiratory Etiquette
All participants will have access to hand sanitizers and bathrooms for handwashing. College Crusade staff and students should cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, throw the tissue in the trash and wash hands immediately with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Health Point of Contact
Every College Crusade program will have one staff member assigned to be the health point of contact authorized to determine whether a student must be picked up from a program because of COVID-19 symptoms.

Isolation and Pickup for Students Exhibiting COVID Symptoms
In the event a student begins to exhibit COVID-19 symptoms, the student will be isolated from the rest of the group and a parent/guardian will be contacted immediately to pick up the student right away.

Seating Charts
To assist with contact tracing, seating charts for buses and classroom-based programs must be developed and implemented.

Cleaning
Cleaning protocols will be determined based on the discussion with our partner organizations.

Visitors
To reduce the risk of exposure, College Crusade programs will limit outside visitors. Any visitor will need to complete a daily screening and adhere to existing rules and protocols regarding masking and distancing.

Summer programs for high school/programas de verano para escuela secundaria

Now is the time to register high school students for summer programs, including traditional summer camp, academic support programs, prep for college opportunities and much more. Read below for information about specific programs.

To register for high school programs, Victor Montanez at vmontanez@onwardwelearn.org or 401-400-0049.

Ahora es el momento de inscribirse en los programas de verano para estudiantes de preparatoria, que incluyen campamentos de verano tradicionales, programas de apoyo académico, preparación para oportunidades universitarias y mucho más. Lea a continuación para obtener información sobre programas específicos.

Grades/grados 9-12

Mystic Aquarium – Marine Bio 101
In this hybrid course students will have the opportunity to explore both the vast variety of species at Mystic Aquarium as well as careers in aquarium science including water quality, life support, exhibit design, marine animal rescue, fish and invertebrate care, and research. Students will interact with aquarium professionals, investigate the animals in their care and engage in work behind the scenes to gain a unique perspective on the careers essential to the success of a world class aquarium. This one-of-a-kind program is the perfect opportunity to test the waters of a career in marine biology. During the weeklong program, students will travel by bus to Mystic Aquarium on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Tuesdays and Thursdays will include shorter virtual experiences with Mystic staff from students’ homes.

Dates:
July 12-16
July 19-23
July 26-30

Mystic Aquarium – Marine Bio 101 (Acuario místico-biología marina)
En este curso híbrido, los estudiantes tendrán la oportunidad de explorar tanto la gran variedad de especies en Mystic Aquarium como carreras en ciencia oceánicas que incluyen calidad del agua, soporte vital, diseño de exhibiciones, rescate de animales marinos, cuidado e investigación de peces e invertebrados. Los estudiantes interactuarán con profesionales de acuarios, investigarán a los animales en su cuidado y trabajarán entre bastidores para obtener una perspectiva única sobre las carreras esenciales para el éxito de un acuario de clase mundial. Este programa, especial en su tipo, es la oportunidad perfecta para una carrera en biología marina. Durante este programa de una semana, los estudiantes viajarán en autobús al Mystic Aquarium los lunes, miércoles y viernes. Los martes y jueves incluirán experiencias virtuales más breves con el personal de Mystic desde los hogares de los estudiantes.

Fechas:
12 al 16 de julio
19 al 23 de julio
26 al 30 de julio

RISD Project Open Door
In this virtual experience, Crusaders explore connections between science, art and photography through image-based assignments and visual explorations inside and outside of the studio environment at the Rhode Island School of Design.

Dates:
July 5-9
July 12-16

RISD Project Open Door (RISD proyecto puertas abiertas)
En esta experiencia virtual, los Crusaders exploran las conexiones entre la ciencia, el arte y la fotografía a través de asignaciones basadas en imágenes y exploraciones visuales dentro y fuera del ambiente del estudio en la universidad Rhode Island School of Design.

Fechas:
5 al 9 de julio
12 al 16 de julio

Grades/grados 10-12

Crusade Get into College Bootcamp
Join this in-person week-long intensive college prep training designed for students in grades 10, 11 and 12 to learn about the college application process. With assistance from college access mentors, each student will gain an understanding of the college admissions process and timeline; navigate the financial aid process; learn how to research colleges and gauge chances of admission; and brainstorm, write and edit college application essays. Students entering their senior year will have a chance to complete the Common App and get advice on teacher recommendations. Students will end the week with a sense of confidence about how to navigate the milestones associated with the college admissions process.

Dates:
July 26-30
Aug. 2-6

Crusade Get into College Bootcamp (Crusade Entra en el campo de entrenamiento de la universidad)
Únase a este entrenamiento intensivo de una semana de preparación universitaria en persona diseñada para estudiantes en los grados 10, 11 y 12 para aprender sobre el proceso de solicitud de ingreso a la universidad. Con la ayuda de los mentores de acceso a la universidad, cada estudiante comprenderá el proceso y el cronograma de admisión a la universidad; navegar la ayuda financiera; aprender a investigar universidades y evaluar las posibilidades de admisión; e escribir y editar ensayos de solicitud de ingreso a la universidad. Los estudiantes que ingresen a su último año en la secundaria tendrán la oportunidad de completar el Common APP (la aplicación común para la universidad) y recibir consejos para las cartas de recomendaciones que les otorgaran sus maestros. Los estudiantes terminarán la semana con un sentido de confianza sobre cómo navegar las etapas principales asociadas con el proceso de admisión a la universidad.

Fechas:
26 al 30 de julio
2 al 6 de agosto

Grades/grados 8-12

PSAT/SAT Prep
In this in-person three-week course in PSAT/SAT preparation and practice tests, high school students will receive a refresher course ahead of the fall SAT and middle school students will learn how to navigate and maximize the free, interactive Khan Academy PSAT/SAT test preparation website.

Dates: July 6-23

PSAT/SAT Prep (Preparación PSAT/SAT)
En este curso en persona de tres semanas, los Crusaders recibirán preparación y exámenes de práctica de PSAT / SAT. Estos son los exámenes que muchas universidades requieren para admisiones. Los estudiantes de secundaria recibirán un curso de actualización antes del SAT, que será administrado en el otoño y los estudiantes de intermedia aprenderán cómo navegar y maximizar el sitio web interactivo gratuito de preparación para el examen Khan Academy PSAT/SAT.

Fechas: 6 de julio al 23 de julio

Grades/grados 9-10

Passageways/Transition
The Passageways in-person program is designed to prepare Crusaders as they transition from middle to high school. The program will teach you how to survive and thrive in high school. These activities will give students the opportunity to get to know and develop positive relationships with their high school advisor and other ninth-grade incoming Crusaders.

Dates:
Aug. 9-13
Aug. 16-20

Passageways/Transition (Pasillos/Transición)
El programa en persona Passageways (pasillos) está diseñado para preparar a los Crusaders en su transición de la escuela intermedia a la secundaria. El programa le enseñará cómo sobrevivir y prosperar en la escuela secundaria. Estas actividades les darán a los estudiantes la oportunidad de conocer y desarrollar relaciones positivas con su consejero de la escuela secundaria y otros Crusaders que también ingresarán al noveno grado.

Fechas:
9 al 13 de agosto
16 al 20 de agosto

Rising ninth and 12th graders/Estudiantes que están ingresando al grado 9 y 12

RIDE and the College Crusade Academic Readiness Partnership through the All Course Network (ACN)
We are offering three virtual academic readiness courses (in partnership with RIDE and listed on the ACN) that provide rising ninth and 12th graders additional academic support to strengthen foundations of math and ELA. Beyond strengthening academic skills, indicating that the student took such courses in the college application senior year will show admissions counselors the student’s commitment to learning.

Contact Victor Montanez for more details on courses, dates and registration.

Asociación de preparación académica entre RIDE y el College Crusade a través del All Course Network (ACN)
Estamos ofreciendo tres cursos virtuales de preparación académica (en asociación con RIDE y listados en la ACN) que brindan apoyo académico adicional a los estudiantes de noveno (9) y duodécimo (12) grado para fortalecer los fundamentos de las matemáticas y ELA (artes del lenguaje inglés). Más allá de fortalecer habilidades académicas, indicar que el estudiante tomo dichos cursos en su solicitud de ingreso a la universidad, mostrará a los consejeros de admisiones el compromiso que el estudiante tiene con la enseñanza y el aprendizaje.

Comuníquese con Victor Montanez para obtener más detalles sobre los cursos, fechas y registr

Grade/grado 12

Creative College Essay Writing
Colleges and universities see writing as the single most important skill that students need. This virtual program helps Crusaders produce a quality college essay and equips them with writing skills that increase their confidence in their expressive abilities.

Dates: July 19-23

Creative College Essay Writing (Creación de Ensayos Universitarios Creativos)
Las universidades ven la escritura como la habilidad más importante que los estudiantes necesitan para ingresar y ser exitosos en la universidad. Este programa virtual ayuda a los Crusaders a producir un ensayo universitario de calidad y los capacita con habilidades de escritura que aumentan suconfianza en sus aptitudes expresivas.

Fechas: 19 al 23 de julio

10 questions with … Victor Montanez

College access organization to change name next spring

Fall programs for high school/programas de otoño para escuela secundaria

Fall programs for middle school/programas de otoño para escuela intermedia

United vision

Learning for Life helps RIC students succeed

10 questions with … Belisa Nunez

Programa de verano de seguridad COVID-19

Summer program COVID-19 safety

Summer programs for high school/programas de verano para escuela secundaria

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