The compact exemplifies SDSU's broader commitment to the community, Weber said. For Sweetwater' s part, it has ratcheted up its curriculum. Next school year, a much greater percentage of its eighth-graders than ever before will be taking algebra, for example. The state's curriculum guidelines recommend, but do not require, that eighth-graders study algebra. Sweetwater has increased its social studies, English and science requirements in high school and will continue to upgrade its curriculum as the first compact students rise through the grades.
Brand also sees the program as a home-grown teacher pipeline.
Brand said he'll guarantee jobs to students who join a Future Educators of America club, complete the compact program and then complete their teacher training at San Diego State. The recent revival of the Future Educators clubs on Sweetwater campuses has been the first initiative to try to find its future work force in its current student population. The compact starts with symbolic signatures on a contract. The student, a parent, the student's principal and Weber all sign. That night, she signed the compact.