96% College Success Rate: Inside the Program Transforming Low-Income Students' Lives with Tracy Baynes

Olivia Wahl

03 February 2025

Why do 96% of STEP students graduate college when the national average is far lower? In this eye-opening conversation with Tracy Baynes, founder of the Student Expedition Program (STEP), discover how experiential learning and comprehensive support are transforming college access for low-income Arizona students. Join our S4E22 conversation to discover how Tracy Baynes is revolutionizing college access for low-income students! From teaching oceanography on tall ships and instructing with the with National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) and Outward Bound to reenvisioning education in Arizona, Tracy shares powerful insights on: Why going to college isn't enough - it's about getting the degreeThe truth about community college vs. 4-year universitiesHow standardized testing acts as a gatekeeperBreaking down barriers in college admissionsThe myth of AP exam scoresBuilding self-advocacy skills for college successCreating generational change through educationTracy offers many strategies and even an invitation to connect about transforming college access and creating pathways to success for all students!   #STEPProgram #CollegeSuccess #HigherEducation #CollegeAccess #Education #StudentSuccess #CollegePrep #FirstGeneration #EducationalEquity #CollegeAdvising #FirstGen #APClasses #CollegeBound #UnderservedStudents #EducationalOpportunity #CollegeGuidance #StudentMentorship When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.