“We’re Like a Family”: What Matters to Nine Graduating Seniors of an Urban, Early College High School

• In Event: Urban Education Initiatives Across Settings and Contexts

Abstract

Using Narrative Inquiry methods, the stories of nine high-need students graduating from an early college high school (6-12) were examined for the purposes of understanding the experiences that enabled these students to graduate high school with a significant number of college credits. Three researchers found highly agentive students who (1) engaged in self-awareness; (2) looked towards the future; (3) embraced school as a place of learning; (4) experienced school as “family”; and (5) developed relationships with people. A sixth theme was identified as “Weighty moments,” where researchers captured powerful experiences unique to each student. Findings suggest that high-need students benefit from a school environment focused on building relationships, cultivating a “family feel,” and supporting students in achieving academic goals.

Authors

• Mary Beth Schaefer, Saint John's University

• Lourdes M. Rivera, Queens College - CUNY