Just two years ago, the Indiana Commission for Higher Education tasked Indiana high schools with achieving a goal of having at least 70 percent of their students file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on or before the annual April 15 deadline.
Last week, the Commission, along with the Indiana Department of Education and INvestED, honored 334 Indiana high schools for meeting or exceeding that goal during a third annual celebration event at the Indiana Statehouse. Last year, 130 schools were honored for hitting the target.
Additionally, 203 high schools were highlighted for meeting another goal set by the Commission: having 70 percent of graduating seniors complete the Scholar Success Program, a requirement for all 21st Century Scholars prior to graduating high school.
Even more notable, 191 high schools accomplished the 70 percent completion goal in both measurements of on-time FAFSA filing and the Scholar Success Program.
Locally, the Argos Community Jr-Sr High School, Culver Academies, LaVille Jr-Sr High School and Triton Jr-Sr High School met the FAFSA goal and the Scholar Success program goal. Bremen Senior High, John Glenn High School and Plymouth High School achieved the FASFA goal. Culver Community School was not listed as achieving either goal set forth.
“On-time completion of both the FAFSA and Scholar Success Program is critical for Scholars to take advantage of the program,” said Indiana Commissioner for Higher Education Teresa Lubbers. “The schools we are celebrating this year are setting an example by ensuring more Hoosier students are prepared for the future.”
Hoosier students and families can turn to several financial aid and grant program options in Indiana, including 21st Century Scholars, the Adult Student Grant, the Workforce Ready Grant, and financial aid for military and public safety officers, teachers and more. Find a full listing of the state’s financial aid options here.
Alongside the high schools, 12 community partners were recognized for contributing to the schools’ success rates including community foundations, non-profit organizations, individuals, and colleges and universities.
