December 6th, 2012
In order to maximize your investment in improving college access, this Fall APP’s Blueprints College Access Initiative launched a new college-coaching program at three Birmingham high schools: Woodlawn, Jackson-Olin and Holy Family Cristo Rey.
College-prep coaches encourage student access and persistence through a combination of ACT prep, career and college planning, and assistance for families in completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
“My mentor Devante Smith . . . guided me on how to go about getting financial aid, scholarships, and grants. I now have a different approach about going to college thanks to you all,” said Jessie Paul, a junior at Jackson-Olin High School.
Here are the results from our first semester:
- 82 10-12th grade students participated in college coaching activities,
- Seniors have completed 30 college applications,
- 29 students have registered and are currently preparing to take the ACT, and
- 10 students are completing scholarship applications.
“It is so rewarding when I get calls from students telling me that they have been accepted to college,” said AmeriCorps*VISTA Member Kevi Martin.
How can you help us build on this success?
- Volunteer. during FAFSA February to help more students access money for college. Email Eva Walton for more information.
- Organize college visits with local high school students; email Hannah Selles to get started.
- Donate to APP to help cover the costs of materials and staffing.
Above: Seniors at Holy Family Cristo Rey work on college applications.