College remediation rates down, Hofmeister says

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OKLAHOMA CITY (May 13, 2020) – Fewer Oklahoma students took remedial college courses in the most recent data released by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. Cutting college remediation in half is one of the six goals in the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s 8-year strategic plan, Oklahoma Edge. 

Among fall 2018 first-time freshmen, 34.6% enrolled in one or more developmental or remedial courses, down 2.5 points from 2017 and 7.9 points from its high point in 2011-12.  

“It is encouraging to learn we are positively impacting Oklahoma’s remediation rate,” said Joy Hofmeister, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. “We must capitalize on every day our students are in school, from pre-kindergarten all the way through their senior year, to build a foundation for success after high school. These results show the difference we can make when we work together to create new solutions and opportunities for kids.” 

Oklahoma families spend an estimated $22 million a year for remedial courses. These are classes taken in college to help students build their skills before taking college-level courses. Students receive no college credit despite paying for the class. 

“Through our ongoing partnership, the State Regents and the State Department of Education continue working collaboratively to strengthen college preparation and best position students for academic success,” said Chancellor Glen D. Johnson. “This latest data is reflective of our joint commitment and our progress.” 

Remediation rates in all individual subject areas have improved since 2015, with a 2.7% drop in English, 21.43% drop in math, 27.47% drop in reading and a 71.43% drop in science. This shows a reverse in an alarming trend requiring remedial classes in college,  revealing significant improvement in students' college and career readiness.

One of the main efforts between OSDE and the State Regents to reduce math remediation rates is a high school class, College Career Math Ready. The course, a fourth-year elective, is raising ACT scores for students. Right now, College Career Math Ready is offered at more than 50 schools around the state, and 148 teachers are trained to teach the course. The class has been available for three years. 

“Much of the success of this news comes from the hard work of teachers and students. Reducing the number of college students who need developmental courses is an indication that our efforts are working.” Hofmeister said. “We are excited to forge ahead as we continue to align Oklahoma’s academic standards and instruction to yield strong and positive outcomes.”