"A Strategic Plan for Developing a Family and Friends College Network: " by Mayte Castro Pino

Date

Fall 12-2-2024

ESRP 9000 Professor

Sandy Underhill, Ed.D.

ESRP 9001 Professor

Sandy Underhill, Ed.D.

Executive Summary

This strategic research project was designed to provide a comprehensive solution to enhance student support and success at Miami Dade College by developing a Family and Friends College Network. The project addresses the critical need for increased parental and community engagement to improve student outcomes, particularly for those from underrepresented backgrounds. The project identifies key gaps in existing support systems through a structured analysis. It proposes a multifaceted approach that includes implementing family engagement programs, creating a centralized resource portal, educational initiatives tailored for families, and strategic partnerships with community organizations. The research emphasizes the importance of a cohesive network that bridges communication between students, their families, and the institution, fostering a supportive educational environment. The strategic process for the final strategy involved a structured approach emphasizing research, analysis, and alignment with institutional goals. Initially, a SWOT analysis was conducted to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats influencing the development of the Family and Friends College Network. This process included evaluating 40 internal and external factors. Subsequently, the study examined four viable solutions, each assessed for its advantages, disadvantages, and feasibility. This evaluation was informed by best practices, evidence-based strategies, and alignment with Miami Dade College's mission. To finalize the decision-making process, the Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix was utilized to objectively evaluate the proposed strategies: developing an in-house landing page and adopting a communication platform against the 40 factors. Following this analysis, the most suitable approach, developing an in-house landing page, was selected based on its potential for impact, sustainability, and a higher total attractiveness score of 6.20. The last step involved was developing an action plan to implement the selected strategy, ensuring scalability and adaptability to evolving institutional and community needs. The action plan consisted of five steps: (1) stakeholder engagement, (2) developing the website, (3) user testing and feedback, (4) marketing and awareness campaign, and (5) monitoring and evaluation. The project's findings underscore that active parental and community involvement is linked to higher student retention and success rates. The recommended solution was chosen based on a SWOT analysis, feasibility assessments, and best practices in educational engagement. The proposed strategy focuses on a sustainable and scalable solution that can adapt to the dynamic needs of the student population. Ultimately, the project concludes that by building a robust support system through a Family and Friends College Network, Miami Dade College can significantly enhance student engagement, retention, and overall success. The proposal aims to establish long-term growth and strengthen the college's commitment to accessibility and educational excellence.

Document Type

Strategic Research Project-NSU Access Only

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

College

Abraham S. Fischler College of Education

Concentration

Organizational Leadership

Language

English

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