It is a well known fact that Algebra is a gatekeeper, essential to students’ success in higher   education. Unfortunately, for many of our young people, Algebra has become an impermeable armed guard, which few are able to master.

For this reason, RPIC board member, Winston Doby, recommended the addition of Algebra Institutes to RPIC’s repertoire of programs. With full board support, RPIC then presented Dr. Doby’s vision of Algebra Institutes to the Connecting Communities Coalition (CCC).  CCC is a network of community-based organizations committed to increasing the number of academically   competitive African American students in California. 

Ten CCC organizations across California eagerly agreed to be host sites for the Algebra Institutes.  Each of the host sites received training, resources, and funding to help prepare their students for Algebra 1.  In 2006, the first annual Algebra Institutes were successfully implemented. 

Algebra Institutes provide students with 6 weeks of intensive instruction in Pre-Algebra.  Unlike the typical Pre-Algebra class however, the Algebra Institutes allow students to focus on college preparation at least twenty percent of the time.  Such preparation includes tips for studying and test taking, long term academic planning, and college campus tours.  Some sites also provide expanded institutes, where students are able to receive continued support throughout the academic year. 

RPIC and the CCC host sites are now preparing for this summer’s institutes and are excited about  the addition of five more CCC host sites.  This year, the CCC members are working   together even more to ensure greater uniformity in the curriculum for the Algebra Institutes, as well as an element of cultural relevance. 

The CCC Summer Algebra Institute program has been made possible by the support from the University of California’s Office of the President, the College Board, the ACT, other financial sponsors, and the hardworking members of the CCC community.

For more information about the 2007 Summer Algebra Institutes schedules, locations, and enrollment process contact us at info@calresearch.org.