What is the impetus behind establishing the Washington State Achievers
Program (WSAP)?
Bill and Melinda Gates believe that access to higher education opens doors
to opportunities, especially for low-income students and students of color.
A recent College Board report revealed that more than 40% of children
from high-income families received a bachelor's degree or higher within
five years of high school graduation, compared with only 6% of those in
the lowest income group. The Washington State Achievers Program hopes
to address this disparity in Washington by working comprehensively with
16 high schools serving large low-income populations. The program will
encourage high school redesign efforts that raise academic achievement
and increase college enrollment and completion rates of all students,
especially those of low-income.
What are the goals of the Washington State Achievers Program?
The Washington State Achievers Program has four primary goals:
- to encourage school redesign that facilitates high academic achievement
and increased college enrollment among all students at the selected
high schools
- to identify and reduce financial barriers to college for talented,
low-income students who have overcome difficult circumstances and who
are motivated to attend college
- to provide mentoring to ensure academic support is available to students
once they are enrolled in college
- to develop a diverse cadre of college-educated citizens and leaders in Washington state
If substantial progress is to be made in increasing college enrollment and completion among low-income and minority youth, efforts to reduce financial barriers to higher education must be accompanied by adequate preparation in K-12 schools, as well as high expectations, and academic support and mentorship while in college. Most schools, particularly those serving low-income populations, are not currently structured to provide these support systems to all students. This program will provide a select number of Washington state high schools with the opportunity to redesign and better serve all students.
When were the first scholarships awarded?
The first scholarships were awarded to juniors and seniors enrolled during
the 2000-2001 academic year in the selected Achievers High Schools in
June 2001. The first class of Achievers Scholars enrolled in college fall
2001. In subsequent years, the application and selection process occur
during the students' junior year in high school. Notification prior to
the senior year will enable recipients to enroll in additional college
preparatory classes during their senior year and will provide recipients
with time to consider college choice, apply for financial aid and pursue
other scholarships as needed.
When will the last scholarships be awarded?
The tenth and final cohort of Achievers Scholarship recipients will be
applying for the scholarship in fall 2008. The deadline for applications
is Friday, October 24, 2008. Students will be notified of selection decisions
in spring 2009 and will enroll in college in fall 2010.
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