Clarkrange High School partnering with the Tennessee Higher Education Commission to expand college access for students through the Regional College Access Support Initiative.
Counselor Kaye Bridges said the program brings a College Access Coordinator to the campus at least two days every month to assist students with questions.
“Actually, being a small rural school as we are, it gives that kid an opportunity maybe who hadn’t really thought about ‘Yes, I can apply because this is easier access,'” Bridges said. “So, it’s really, I think, a more cohesive way to let our kids know ‘Yes, there is an opportunity out there’ and ‘Yes, this is a way you can do this, and we’re going to help you transition.'”
Bridges said the school recently hosted a financial aid night to help parents and students understand their options. Bridges said future briefings will offer further information on navigating the transition after high school.
Bridges said the school also encouraging students to use the statewide free college application month throughout September to remove financial barriers for families.
“The free application is a real great advantage because UT’s application’s 75 dollars,” Bridges said. “That’s a whole bunch of groceries for a family, and that’s a very big cost.”
Bridges said the school provides internet access and computer facilities during the day and evening for families who may not have reliable service at home. Bridges said this one-on-one support helps families navigate the FAFSA and application process together.
“I think it’s a great help,” Bridges said. “It’s another voice that they hear that they’re thinking ‘Okay, this is possible. Yes, I can do this. Yes, I will apply. I will at least give it a try.'”
Bridges said the Tennessee Promise serves as a critical last-dollar scholarship that guarantees funds for two years of education. Bridges said students attending a TCAT can utilize the Wilder-Naifeh grant before applying Tennessee Promise funds, with the HOPE Scholarship and federal aid remaining available if they later transfer to a community college.
“My definition of success is being happy with what they choose to do and comfortable in their path to do it,” Bridges said. “Success to me is helping them navigate either to the workforce or to a community college or to a TCAT or to a four-year.”
Bridges said she encourages any parent with questions to reach out to their local school counselors or contact the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation for guidance.
In addition to Clarkrange High School, DeKalb County High School also receiving this special help.
