In the fall of 2004, public television will present the prime-time documentary series The College Track: America's Sorting Machine. Hosted and narrated by Emmy Award-winning actor Andre Braugher, the series explores America's commitment to equal access to higher education through the stories of students struggling to become the first in their families to attend college.

The three-part series examines how low expectations and lack of rigorous preparation limit students' choices and hamper their chances for success. The series illustrates how innovative programs designed to bridge gaps can make all the difference. This Web site will help parents, students and concerned members of the community to find answers to questions raised by the program.

	Program One: Who's In, Who's Out How do "comprehensive" high schools — created in the 1930s when many people made their livings on farms and in factories — leave many young people unprepared in today's high-tech world? How are some public school systems turning away from that traditional approach and instead are aiming to prepare all students for college? Featured stories include: Sparks, Nevada; Clermont County, Ohio; New York City, New York.
	Program Two: Expect the Best How can parents who have not attended college themselves, who face linguistic or cultural barriers, and have no experience with admissions testing, financial aid forms and course selection help their children prepare for higher education? Where do you begin when even the terms used to discuss college are unfamiliar? Featured stories include: Rio Grande Valley, Texas; Cleveland, Ohio; Atlanta, Georgia.
	Program Three: Staying In Why do so many students drop out before they finish college? How can colleges help students belonging to underrepresented minority groups from being isolated? Where can you get help paying the bills? How can a community college be a first step toward a four-year college degree? Featured stories include: Baltimore, Maryland; Pulaski County, Indiana; Los Angeles, California.