Opening Doors Learning Communities

Opening Doors Learning Communities at Kingsborough Community College is a one-semester program for incoming freshmen (ages 17-34) who tested into either developmental or college-level English (excluding ESL students) and planned to attend full time. The program places groups of up to 25 students in three linked courses during their first semester: an English course (developmental or college-level based on placement test scores), an academic course required for their major, and a one-credit freshman orientation course. Faculty receive one hour of reassigned time to meet regularly, discuss student progress, integrate curricula, and coordinate assignments. Enhanced supports include: a case manager (Opening Doors counselor) who teaches the orientation course and proactively assists 75-100 students across 3-4 learning communities; a tutor assigned to each learning community who attends the English and often the subject matter course; and textbook vouchers worth $150 for the 12-week main session and $75 for the subsequent 6-week intersession. Some services (enhanced counseling, textbook vouchers) extend into the intersession following the program semester.