Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this mixed-methods case study was twofold: first, to explore the 6 exceptional systems of a culture of college readiness supported within 2 No Excuses University elementary schools and identify any patterns or trends that may exist across 4th- and 6th-grade levels, and second, to examine the relationship between these patterns or trends and student academic achievement in reading and writing as well as social behavior in the classroom. Methodology. The sample population for this study consisted of 2 school sites and the following stakeholders: 2 principals, 5 4th-grade teachers, 5 6th-grade teachers, and 4th- and 6th-grade students located in a unified school district in Southern California. Qualitative data were collected from the teachers and administrators to identify patterns and trends at the school sites; quantitative archival data and secondary quantitative data were used to analyze students' academic and social behaviors. Findings. Both School 1 and School 2 had implemented No Excuses University for more than 5 years, and consequently, patterns/trends of the 6 exceptional systems at each site were identified. The implementation was discovered at various degrees of application, as evidenced through the data collection at both school sites. The varied patterns and trends identified were relevant to the culture of each school site and the academic performance. Conclusions. Promoting college readiness using the philosophy of the No Excuses University organization, which consists of 6 exceptional systems—culture of universal achievement, collaboration, standards alignment, assessment, data management, and interventions—has a positive impact on students' reading and writing scores. Recommendations. The 2 No Excuses University sites provided data for this mixed-methods study for purposeful examination, promotion, and continued improvement in understanding the concept of college readiness. The study can benefit further studies that focus on college readiness starting in the elementary setting.