Last year, thousands of students found their way to a basic skills class at Continuing Education. For the 184 active duty military students who completed a class at MCAS (Marine Corps Air Station) Miramar Education Center, they ended up exactly where they expected—ahead.
The classes at MCAS support the Military Academic Skills Program. Currently, in addition to MCAS at Miramar, SDCCD offers classes at the 32nd Street Naval Base and at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot.
“There are not many situations when active duty men and women from all branches of the US military are in a room together, and call each other by first names,” said Dr. Lisa Curtain, Executive Director of Government and Military Programs for SDCCD. The basic skills class at MCAS Miramar has created an exception to the rule. “The goal is to provide a safe, comfortable environment so students can excel,” said Curtain.
“Most students are interested in retaking the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) exam,” says Instructor Lee Darby.
ASVAB is the required military entry exam that determines eligibility for training programs, and more training generally means more opportunity. For example, someone could move from entry-level infantry or armor assignments into medical or electronic programs, which are often considered more desirable sections within the service.
Students also take the class to qualify for Officer Candidacy programs. SN Maria Kristine “MK” Villanueva, US Navy, is a seaman on the USS Comstock. “I increased my ASVAB score by 10 points, and was offered more than 20 more rates (jobs) after I retook it,” said MK.
“We have cumulative data that supports our success,” said Dr. Brian Ellison, Vice President of Instruction and Student Services for Continuing Education. “Students are tested before and after class, and we see improved scores in all areas—the most significant in math.”
Students attend eight hours daily, five days each week for two straight weeks. “The sinking into your head part comes mostly after class,” said Darby. “The top suggestion on the evaluations is for class to be longer.”
At the end of the two weeks, Annette Ragsdale, SDCCD Military Education Program Coordinator, visits the class to explain next steps. “I tell students they have been provided an introduction to SDCCD and there are six Continuing Education campuses, plus three colleges where they can continue,” she says. Annette’s primary message is about transition and transfer opportunities—tips that keep students on a career or college path.