I had an opportunity to read LSSU APR and thought i would first comment on the highlights. As a footnote, at least mentally, my mind is making connections/drawing parallels with some of the other programs i have looked at.  LSSU is interesting because of the location--the UP and servicing Native American community and students.  A notable observation is the the program is housed at the LSSU Native American center and programming workshops take place at this site vs the schools?  The report identified strengths:  relationship between GU staff and the high school students and the use of LSSU college students as NEAR PEER mentors.

The report summarizes its greatest challenges as rural communities, massive transportation distances and cultural realities.  Of special interest was the observation by the program director "many aspiring first generation students and their families, reported tension from family, peers and friends as they participated in GU.  OK additional highlights:
      
1.  the greatest program hours were spent in mentoring
2.  teacher engagement increased over the two years but was affected by school access
3.  access to schools and problems w implementing the MI Merit Curriculum
4. by year five 2/3 of 11th graders enrolled in advanced math****
5.  high levels of absenteeism
6.  parental perceptions (1.e. moving away to college)
7.  social conditions & historical experiences--some parents not aware of student involvement in GU, breaking away from historic tendencies
8.  of those that did respond to survey 75% expect their child to attend college--question posed regarding how to tap into this expectation.
9.  tuition waiver & fees , result of treaty agreement for those with at least 1/4 Native American blood
10.  difficult time generation school and family support