California Community Colleges Linked Learning Initiative (CCCLLI)

Students who successfully navigate California community colleges to earn a degree or cer­tificate nearly double their earnings within three years, but less than 50 percent of community college students who seek such credentials complete the process. Completion rates are still lower for African American and Latinx community college students.

The CCC Linked Learning Initiative aims to improve these rates by extending the promise of Linked Learning into postsecondary education. It strengthens connec­tions between Linked Learning high schools and community colleges.

The California Linked Learning District Initiative, a demonstration project funded by the James Irvine Foundation, sup­ported:

    • a system of early outreach and support for Linked Learning Academy students focused on industry-supported community college pathways
    • a transition program that prepares students for postsecondary success in a career pathway program, and
    • ongoing student services and academic support while in college.

CLLDI supported colleges and their high school partners to build dual enrollment, alternative assessment strategies, and con­textualized, articulated coursework and student services support. CLP worked with several California com­munity colleges to document the practices that:

    • foster more intentional educational and career transitions from high school,
    • improve college retention and academic achievement, and
    • improve college and career success for graduates of Linked Learning High School programs.

Establishing clear pathways from high school to the full range of postsecondary opportunities is an essential step in overcoming structural barriers to educational and career advancement.