The Allegany County Public Schools (ACPS) held a public meeting on March 11, 2024, to discuss various educational initiatives, with a significant focus on the "Habits for Success College Orientation" pilot program. This initiative aims to support dual enrollment students taking college English courses.

The meeting began with an update on the pilot program, which was initiated in the summer of 2023. The program was developed in response to feedback from a stakeholder committee comprising dual enrollment teachers and faculty from Allegany College of Maryland (ACM). The committee identified challenges faced by students in adapting to the rigor of college-level coursework, prompting the need for an orientation class.

The pilot program commenced in the fall of 2024, allowing students to be concurrently enrolled in college English while participating in the orientation course. The structure of the program included college English classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with orientation sessions held online on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The curriculum was designed to enhance college and career readiness, focusing on essential skills such as note-taking, organizational strategies, test preparation, stress management, and effective use of the learning management system, Brightspace.

A total of 98 students participated in the pilot, with 18 students withdrawing from the course. Despite this, 80 students successfully earned one elective college credit, with a majority achieving high grades. Student feedback highlighted the effectiveness of the program, particularly in areas such as note-taking and time management. Participants expressed appreciation for the support network provided by both ACPS and ACM staff, which included techniques for managing stress and preparing for assessments.

The meeting concluded with a positive outlook on the pilot program, emphasizing its role in equipping students with the necessary skills for success in higher education. Further evaluations and reflections from students will continue to inform the program's development and potential expansion in the future.