FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 10, 2011
Contact: Charlene Briner 651-582-1145
Governor Dayton Proclaims November 14-18
College Application Week
Roseville, Minn. – To acknowledge and highlight the importance of high school students being prepared to apply to colleges, Governor Dayton has proclaimed the week of November 14 -18, 2011 as College Application Week.
In order for Minnesota to continue to be a leader in education and economic development, experts and business leaders agree on the need to significantly increase the number of students pursuing and completing a certificate program, associate’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree.
“Nothing is more important to Minnesota’s economic future or quality of life than making sure we create and sustain a highly educated workforce,” said Education Commissioner Brenda Cassellius. “I can’t think of a better goal than that of having every high school student take the first step toward a brighter future by applying to college.”
College Application Week is an initiative designed to engage and inform students across the state about the college application process. The primary goal at the high school level is to increase the number of students completing a college application, especially first-generation college applicants.
Seventeen high schools have been identified as pilot sites to increase the number of college applicants this year, with many other schools participating on a variety of levels. High school pilot sites will be coordinating and dedicating time during the regular school day this week to have seniors complete a college application with the assistance of trained school staff and volunteers.
Some postsecondary institutions are waiving their application fees this week for qualifying students, and many postsecondary institutions have a fee-waiver policy for low-income students.
“It is our hope that this first College Application Week will raise awareness among students and their families that postsecondary education is possible, regardless of family income,” said Larry Pogemiller, Director of the Office of Higher Education. “Last year, 71 percent of Minnesota’s graduates went on to postsecondary school in the fall; we’re hoping to raise that number even higher.”
Resources for College Application Week:
A variety of resources have been organized for high school sites. Many can be adapted to fit individual site needs.
• Visit the Minnesota College Access Website.
• Office of Higher Education has provided a webpage where all online Minnesota college applications can be accessed and information will be provided about the fee waiver processes.
• View a message from Education Commissioner Brenda Cassellius
• Volunteers: Access a list of volunteers through this link.
###