How do colleges retain students? Fort Worth counselors say it begins in high school

Key Takeaways:

• Early preparation is key to college retention.
• Collaboration among educators enhances student support.
• Local partnerships strengthen educational strategies.
• Summits provide valuable forums for idea exchange.
• High school engagement impacts postsecondary success.

Fort Worth Educators Advocate for Early Action to Boost College Retention

Introduction

During a recent summit at Texas Christian University (TCU) in Fort Worth, counselors and students from across Tarrant County convened to tackle a critical question: How can colleges retain more students through to graduation? The consensus was clear—the journey to college success begins long before students set foot on a university campus.

The Imperative of Early Intervention

Educators stressed that efforts to improve college retention must start in high school. By laying a strong educational foundation and preparing students for the challenges of higher education, schools can significantly impact their students’ postsecondary success.

Role of Counselors and Educators

Counselors from local school districts, including Castleberry ISD, Crowley ISD, and Fort Worth ISD, participated in the summit. They shared insights on how personalized guidance and support during high school years can encourage students to pursue and persist in higher education.

Tarrant To & Through Partnership’s Contributions

The event was organized by the Tarrant To & Through Partnership (T3), an organization dedicated to improving postsecondary outcomes in the region. T3’s Retention Summit, held on July 17, 2025, provided a platform for educators and students to collaborate on strategies that support student retention.

Insights from the Summit

One of the speakers, Emmanuel Camacho, highlighted the significance of starting early. Speaking during a panel discussion, Camacho emphasized, “Starting early is essential to ensure students are equipped with the skills and support they need to succeed in college.”

Collaborative Strategies for Success

Discussions at the summit centered on collaborative approaches. Educators and students explored various methods to engage young adults, emphasizing that a collective effort is necessary to address the complex challenges of college retention.

Conclusion

The Retention Summit underscored a vital message: College retention is not solely a higher education issue but one that requires early and sustained intervention. By focusing on preparation during high school, educators in Fort Worth are paving the way for greater student success in college and beyond.