The University wanted to expose their faculty to some of the alternative teaching methods profiled during our summer workshops at Simon’s Rock. Also, they were eager to begin forging partnerships with Bard College at Simon’s Rock, as well as with educators and interest groups throughout the state. Who did you work with from the University while you were there? Professors Sue Hills, director of the outreach core of Alaska BioPrep; Eduardo Wilner, who belongs to both the department of philosophy and the department of biology and wildlife; educational reform activists, Steve Levey, a former high school teacher, and Torie Foote, director of the College of Rural and Community Developmental Rural Health programs. Why is the University of Alaska looking to open early college opportunities to students now? Some statistics were shared that may reveal some of reasons. The graduation rate from Fairbanks high schools is 62%, the lowest in the state. This group is looking to raise it to at least 75