Equitable Dual Enrollment: A Policy to Practice Guide (Supporting Student Success)

California Dual Enrollment Equity Conference: This session will provide attendees with guidance of the essential wrap-around services institutions need to implement a holistic approach for supporting the academic, social and basic needs that provide a pathway to success for all dual enrolled students.

This presentation is one of four that will be co-led by CLP on the Equitable Dual Enrollment Policy to Practice Guide, a comprehensive, user-friendly resource designed to support California dual enrollment practitioners in expanding equitable dual enrollment opportunities. Each section provides tools to get started, support implementation and collaboration, examples from the field, resources, and strategies for advancing equity and access. The guide was created by CLP with funding from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office.

This presentation will highlight Mendocino College’s Student Ambassador Program as a practical, equity-centered strategy for expanding access to support across geographically dispersed high schools. To ensure dual-enrolled students understand how to navigate Canvas and access services such as basic needs and mental health support, the college hires and trains student ambassadors at each partner high school to serve as peer liaisons throughout the semester. Now supported by the local K–16 collaborative, the model includes regional training and pathway exposure opportunities. Participants will leave with concrete strategies for building peer-led infrastructure that strengthens access, belonging, and persistence in dual enrollment programs.

Presenters: Dr. Byron Reaves, CLP; and Dr. Amanda Xu, Mendocino College