The free, one week, program helps students develop reading and writing strategies to succeed in college.
Students continue to flock to Word Jam at Cañada College. Now in its third session, the program has grown from 35 students to more than 60.Word Jam is a free, non-credit, one week program designed to provide additional assistance to Cañada College students who struggle with reading and writing. It is targeted to English as a Second Language learners and students in pre-transfer level English and Reading. It is being held this week from 9 am to noon in the school’s library.
“I’m hoping we can offer an evening session of Word Jam in the future,” said program coordinator Julie Wilson, a resident of East Palo Alto. “Many, many students who I’ve talked with express an interest in attending, but the morning schedule is a challenge for them.”
As part of the program, students learn the expectations of their specific English, Reading, or ESL course, become familiar with Cañada College resources, and practice college-level reading and writing strategies. More than 70 percent of the students entering Cañada test at remedial levels in reading and writing and are not academically prepared for transfer-level coursework.
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To participate in the program, students must be registered in the San Mateo County Community College District and enrolled in any English, Reading, or ESL course.
The program is funded by Measure G, a $34-per-year parcel tax that provides vital funding for San Mateo County’s three community colleges – College of San Mateo, Skyline College and Cañada College.
