Over the last thirty years access to higher education has expanded markedly. Remediation and support programs, including summer bridge programs, have grown in response to the needs of international students, non-English speakers and disabled students, and others who need help in gaining an equal footing with other students. The other main thrust of these programs is to retain these new populations within higher education. The summer programs offer a wide range of activities: academic support, study skills, career counseling, parent involvement, developing relationships on campus, computer literacy, and partnerships with business, communities, and K-12 educators. Individualization of the curricula and programs to the needs of each campus is essential. Every program should begin by developing a mission statement and goals that serve as the foundation of any evaluation, recognizing that it is not usually possible to offer all activities and to serve all populations. Bridge programs are also gaining support internationally, as other countries expand their higher education systems; many are looking to U.S. models, and our institutions need to support and nurture these programs. (RH) (8 references) (ERIC No. ED442421)
