While there are many college-readiness programs out there, fewer focus on getting students through college and to graduation. This is where the Charting for Success program at Communities in Schools of Lake County fills in the gaps for East Chicago students.
Charting for Success not only helps students to get accepted into college, but also works to give them the tools to continue to achieve success throughout their time in school. These tools include, but are not limited to, financial advising, course advising, academic support, and resume building opportunities. All of these experiences and resources benefit the students and their families in a variety of ways, including:
- -Linking students’ expectations to the idea that obtaining a college degree is vital to future career successes
- -Providing a group of peers who are also planning to attend college
- -Offering activities that address college affordability and provide information on financial aid options
- -Involving parents in all parts of the process to help create a support system for the student
- -Offering academic support while students are still in high school to ensure that their college dollars are spent on credit courses as opposed to remedial classes
- -Providing opportunities for internships, volunteer work, and career exploration to help set East Chicago students’ resumes apart from others
Charting for Success has been part of Communities in Schools of Lake County for five years and has a demonstrated success rate with East Chicago students. To learn more about the program, visit www.FoundationsEC.org.
