A Compass for Success: A New Direction for Academic Support Programs

The article examines the effectiveness of Academic Support Programs (ASPs) in law schools, focusing on the mandatory Compass program at William Mitchell College of Law. It argues that ASPs are most effective when they are structured, skills-focused, and mandatory for at-risk students, rather than targeting specific groups like minority students. The analysis highlights the importance of addressing academic support needs early to improve student performance and satisfaction while avoiding stigma and constitutional concerns. The study demonstrates significant GPA improvements for participants and emphasizes the need for race-neutral, inclusive program designs.