Ebie, Gwyn Anne, authorDavies, Timothy Gray, advisorBianco, Margarita, advisor2024-03-132024-03-132009https://hdl.handle.net/10217/237705The purpose of this case study was to better understand how Latina and Latino students experience their pre-collegiate program and learn whether or not they feel their experience has impacted or will impact their decision to continue their postsecondary pursuit. This case study focused on a single, specific pre-collegiate program. I used the phenomenology approach to explore how pre-collegiate program's social and cultural contributions impact a student's willingness, interest, and ability to pursue postsecondary education. Interviews of students participating in a pre-collegiate program and their families were the primary source of data. Using a Critical Race Theory and Latina/Latino Critical Theory lenses, I examined the social and cultural experiences pre-collegiate Latina/o students encountered in their journey to postsecondary institutions. This research documents that Latina/o students are systematically and consistently excluded from access to the dominant high school culture. This study also documents the systematic and pervasive racism aimed at Latinas/os from those assured membership in the dominant culture who either do not notice or willingly accept. This study concludes making recommendations for multicultural and school-centered institutions that empower Latina/o students while continuing to increase college access through pre-collegiate programs.born digitaldoctoral dissertationsengCopyright and other restrictions may apply. User is responsible for compliance with all applicable laws. For information about copyright law, please see https://libguides.colostate.edu/copyright.critical race theoryculturalLatina/Latino critical theoryLatina/oLatino/Latinapostsecondarypre-collegiateprecollegiatebilingual educationschool counselingsecondary educationHispanic American studieshigher educationTextPer the terms of a contractual agreement, all use of this item is limited to the non-commercial use of Colorado State University and its authorized users.