Gateway has initiated an evaluation planning process and intends to undertake an in-depth feasibility study in fall 2011, followed by a random assignment study conducted by MDRC in 2012. The study is expected to generate valid estimates of the program’s effects within a year after enrollment on intermediate outcomes such as credits earned, school attendance, risk-taking behavior and attachment to school and the labor market. Interim results from the evaluation will be available in 2014, and long-term results, including effects on high school graduation and post-secondary credentials, in 2015. The program is expected to reach a demonstrated level of effectiveness by 2014.

EMCF has approved a three-year investment in Gateway to College National Network (GtCNN), with a first-year award of $2 million, to support a rigorous evaluation of its program and expansion to six new sites. Awards in years two and three, which are contingent on grantee performance and renewal of federal SIF funding, will provide up to $1.5 million, for an overall investment of up to $3.5 million over three years.

For information on what this grant will support, see Details of 2012-2014 Investment.

For more information on Gateway to College, see www.gatewaytocollege.org.