Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) is sending a strong message to students, families, staff members and the community that we believe it is imperative that all students be prepared for college, career and life. Providing more students with the right preparation will advance our whole nation.
We know that when college is affordable, the chances of college completion increase. Each year hundreds of MPS students fail to get federal college aid because of difficulties completing the required Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). These students are 70 percent less likely to apply to college.
AchieveMpls and MPS are teaming up to provide FAFSA Workshops in February and March for MPS students and their families. Our goal is to help students complete the FAFSA and continue on their path to achieve their dream of college.
We are proud to announce that MPS will add to our college-readiness efforts by offering the ACT exam free of charge to all grade 11 students this spring. This will result in increased equity of test-takers and more students applying for and being accepted into college. It also removes barriers that some students may experience, such as cost and transportation for taking college-entrance exams.
Our high school counselors and AchieveMpls College and Career Center staff members are experts who provide students with the information, personal support and connections they need to create a solid plan for careers or college. Each one of our employees who touch students has this same duty to influence and inspire our young people to be successful in their futures.
Reach the MSR staff at msrnewsonline@spokesman-recorder.com.