This week seniors at thousands of high schools across the country will celebrate choosing a college to start the next chapter of their educations. Cash for College campaign high schools in Alabama are joining these efforts to celebrate post-secondary education and careers and create a college-going culture in their communities.
College Signing Day is celebrated on or around May 1 as it is the most common deadline among colleges and universities for students to select their school of choice. The day is part of the national Better Make Room campaign, a new public awareness campaign targeting Generation Z (young people ages 14-19) to celebrate education, change the national conversation, and reach students directly where they are and give them a space to create content while also navigating the college-going process.
Alabama high schools will participate with ceremonies and receptions featuring guest speakers and representatives from local colleges and universities. Some schools will present scholarships to students. Teachers and other school personnel often wear t-shirts with their alma mater.
According to Cash for College participant Sardis High School Counselor Kendall Tankersley, “We believe it is vital to recognize our students who plan to continue their education or career after high school. These students have worked hard to learn a trade, earn acceptance into college or meet the strict requirements of the United States military branches. We also want to recognize these students so that younger classmen can learn from their example and strive for the same greatness!”
Alabama Possible Executive Director Kristina Scott hopes the celebration of College Signing Day will continue to grow in Alabama: “College Signing day is a core part of our efforts to build excitement around going to college and further raise awareness about the importance of completing the FAFSA to help make college accessible to all students.”
Any student seeking federal or state financial aid – including grants, loans, and work-study programs – must complete the FAFSA. Many students will qualify for Pell Grants of up to $6,195 per year. Students can use Pell Grants for two-year and four-year technical and academic programs. If you want to learn more about the FAFSA and Cash for College, visit cashforcollegealabama.org.
*Note: The text was updated to reflect a $100 increase in the maximum Pell Grant award for the 2019-2020 academic year.