Fresno Unified School District
HBCU Step-Up
Mission
The HBCU Step-Up program will provide a pathway to transformative learning opportunities for students to experience a dynamic array of postsecondary options by earning up to 13 transferable credits in partnership with HBCU’s that are known for a rich history of excellence contributed to a community of learners.
Program Criteria
Students are identified based on their grade point average (GPA) and recruited by College and Career Readiness, Step Up Counselors, Step Up Champions, A4, and other FUSD departments. If you are interested in more information or to get your student involved, please reach out directly to your school’s Step Up Counselor or Step Up Champion.
In order to participate in the Step-Up program, students must:
- Maintain a C or above in the dual enrollment course(s) and in each high school semester grade course
- Be on good academic and behavioral standing
- Sign a code of conduct agreement
- Complete all work as assigned by due dates
- Participate in all the Step-Up extracurricular activities (the Kickoff Reception and Boot Camp are required)
- Sign an agreement for your participation (If you play sports, your coach must allow you to attend class and support your participation and study time)
- Participate in an HBCU nine-day excursion College Campus Tour (visit 8 to 10 colleges and universities on the east coast)
- Participate in all College Ready Workshops (Scholarships, Admissions, and Financial Aid)
- Participate in leadership conferences and activities
Benefits of Participation
- Students are more likely to graduate from high school
- Students gain early college experience
- Students gain priority admission to Benedict College
- Improved academic outcomes for students, particularly first-generation, low-income households, and underserved populations
- Students are less likely to need to take basic skills courses in college
- Dual Enrollment can decrease the amount of time a student will spend in college completing general education (GE) and/or prerequisite courses
- Program is a cost-efficient way for students to accumulate college credits because courses are taken at no cost to the student through their high school
- Program promotes specific pathways to HBCUs and other four-year colleges and universities, especially in high-demand subject areas
- Potential scholarships for students who have above a 3.2 GPA
Contact Information
District Manager: Gloria Ponce-Rodriguez (559) 248-7467
| School Site | School Site Champion | Counselor |
|---|---|---|
| Bullard | Kari Holland | Vanessa Russell |
| Edison | Chris Finley | Kejhiana Beasley |
| Sunnyside | Tasha Hicks | Lanae Lopez |
Parent and Student Testimonial
The best part about attending an HBCU is the culture.
Amarion Lee
Fresno High Alumni
Class of 2021