PODER- Pursuing Our Dreams through Education and Responsibility

Dr. Wendy Molina-Solis, Director of MTSS

Kimberly Carrillo, Executive Secretary

626-943-3530

Pursuing Our Dreams through Education and Responsibility

Mission

Assist first-generation college-bound students in connecting identity with academic purpose and a continued commitment to education.

In our commitment to provide equity and access, AUSD had created the PODER program for first generation college bound students. We are extremely proud of our home-grown program which offers extensive opportunities to our students. In addition to the classes offered being A-G approved in grades 9-12, students receive access to additional tutoring, field trips, clubs and monthly activities. An orientation is offered for all incoming freshman and their families in early spring by the receiving high schools in collaboration with the elementary schools and the district. We encourage all interested families to attend and look forward to welcoming new members to our growing PODER family!

Please visit the PODER SITE for more information, to submit your applications and to view videos of students sharing their amazing experiences with PODER!

Recruitment Criteria

Who May Participate?

Students who:

Have the desire to work hard in challenging courses and attend a four-year college or university
Will be the first in their family to attend college
Have between a 2.0 and 3.0 grade point average
Are willing to enroll in a rigorous college-preparatory sequence of courses, including honors and AP courses

Process

The process includes:

An application
Review of records
Decision to be made by high school APs of Instruction

Activities and Opportunities

PODER students have access to the following:

Freshman Bridge/Summer Institute
Summer Classes
Field Trips (virtual until further notice)
PODER Club
SAT/ACT Preparation
SAT School Day
Guest Speakers
College Talks
Inquiry and Collaboration Time
Student-Led Presentations
Tutoring
Mentoring of incoming PODER students