Measure for Measure: How Innovations in Course Placement are Helping Community College Students Succeed

In recognition of our 50th anniversary, we are highlighting examples of where the work of MDRC and its partners is making a difference.  Stephen Burke meets with dozens of students every semester, but he still vividly recalls a conversation he had with one student a few years ago.  Burke, a professor of English at Rockland Community College in Suffern, New York, had noticed that “Troy” struggled to stay awake in class. Beyond just nodding off, he would often slump forward in his seat, falling fast asleep for entire lectures.