New Grant Boosts Iowa’s Postsecondary Education Coaching Program
DES MOINES — In an effort to enhance postsecondary education support across Iowa, the state’s Department of Education has secured a $330,843 grant from AmeriCorps, a prominent national service and volunteerism agency. This funding will bolster the “Course to College” program, spearheaded by the Bureau of Iowa College Aid, which has been assisting students since 2017 in accessing higher education opportunities.
“Course to College coaches and peer mentors support students across Iowa year-round in pursuing multiple pathways to postsecondary success,” said Iowa Department of Education Director McKenzie Snow. “Leveraging purposeful education-community partnerships, AmeriCorps volunteers in twenty-nine Iowa school districts and community colleges are helping provide students what they need to meet high expectations and realize their incredible potential.”
This financial support will facilitate nearly 70 AmeriCorps members to work as Student Leaders and Course to College Coaches. Additionally, high school counselors will participate as Summer Transition Associates. In their roles, Student Leaders, who are high school seniors, will guide their peers toward postsecondary goals. Meanwhile, Course to College Coaches will offer both in-person and virtual assistance throughout the college application and financial aid processes. They will also organize career and college readiness events like Application Day, FAFSA completion events, and Decision Day, which honors students’ commitments to military service, apprenticeships, and college enrollment.
During the summer, school counselors serving as Summer Transition Associates will focus on aiding students in completing the FAFSA and ensuring successful enrollment in their chosen postsecondary programs.
“This continuation grant is a testament to the proven track record of success that the Course to College Coaching program has established in helping Iowans prepare for and pursue postsecondary education,” said David Ford, Iowa College Aid Bureau Chief. “We look forward to continuing to support students throughout the college-going process in schools and communities across Iowa.”
AmeriCorps State and National enlists over 65,000 Americans annually in dedicated service roles. Participants in this program receive a living allowance, health care, and childcare benefits. Upon successful completion of their service term, members are awarded the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award, which can be used to repay qualified student loans or cover current educational expenses at eligible institutions.
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