News Article

Edison College Awarded Gannett Foundation Grant

May 23, 2008

Students at Edison College will benefit from a $5,000 grant from the Gannett Foundation that will expand tutoring services to help them develop their writing skills.

The popular Writing Center's one-on-one tutoring services have had a dramatic impact on improving student competencies. Basic writing proficiency, as measured by national standardized tests, has almost doubled. Tutors assist students in grammar, punctuation, content, formatting, literary analysis and research, outlining and improving clarity in written assignments. The Center also offers a regular schedule of group workshops to support students' long-term development as writers.

The Gannett Foundation grant will help expand Lee Campus tutoring services for economically disadvantaged students, for those learning English as a second language, and for first generation in college students who often lack family or peer support in their desire to complete a degree. The personal assistance provided through the College's Writing Center, Mathematics Lab and Peer Tutoring program help motivate and propel at-risk students through the college experience.

"We are most appreciative to the News Press and Gannett Foundation for supporting our students as writers and scholars," said District President Kenneth P. Walker.

Edison College serves a five-county area with campuses in Lee, Charlotte, and Collier counties, a center serving Hendry/Glades counties, and through Edison Online. For additional information, call 1-800-749-2322 or visit www.edison.edu.

Last Updated: May 23, 2008