This week, Education Dive took a look at how the University of Southern California diversifies its student body with an "all-in approach" that begins the recruitment process for prospective students as early as middle school.

In K-12 news, early Common Core exam results are reportedly higher than expected in many states, though few states cleared 50% proficiency in any subject. And for districts seeking to more easily connect students with quality mentors, Fidelis Education may have the tech solution to help students build those strong, impactful bonds.

Should students taking on-campus courses pay the same price as their peers if they sign up for an over-enrolled class and have to watch a live-stream in an overflow room? That's the question at hand at the University of Central Florida, which is currently doing just that — to the chagrin of some critics.

Be sure to check out our feature examining 10 trends shaping the future of K-12 and higher ed, and more, in this week's most-read Education Dive posts!

• These 10 trends are shaping the future of education: Innovation in the space likely won't create an all-new landscape, but it will be markedly different.
• USC targets prospective students as early as middle school to diversify student body: An early preparation program, intensive recruitment, and on-campus support help USC boast a high proportion of Pell Grant recipients and community college transfers. 
• Common Core results exceed expectations: As the results roll out, it’s also clear that comparing results across states will be challenging — if not impossible.
• How tech can help students build stronger bonds: Fidelis Education is trying to connect students with more adult mentors to keep them on track and engaged.
• UCF enrolls more students than it has seats, live-streams lectures to overflow: Lecture-capture technology allows the university to offer intro courses to more students than its classrooms fit.

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