COMMONWEALTH of VIRGINIA
Department of Education

October 19, 2012

TO:  Division Superintendents

FROM:  Patricia I. Wright, Superintendent of Public Instruction

SUBJECT:  Grant to Establish an Extended-Year College Readiness Center for Middle School Students

The 2012 General Assembly appropriated $175,000 for fiscal year 2013 for a grant to one school division to create a pilot College Readiness Center for students in grades six through eight.  The goal of the program is to increase the number of students who attain a college degree without the need for remedial services at the college level.  Particular focus is on students who would likely be first-generation college attendees, and may need additional support and encouragement to consider college as a postsecondary option.

The pilot Center must offer an extended school calendar, and must provide middle school students with the academic skills and support systems necessary to successfully continue their academic programs in high school with Advanced Placement, dual-enrollment, and other college-preparatory courses.  This support will enable them to graduate from secondary schools and successfully enroll in two- or four-year postsecondary institutions.  Additional criteria are outlined in the application packet in Attachment A.

Interested school divisions should submit the completed application electronically by Friday, November 2, 2012, to:

Dr. Linda Wallinger
Assistant Superintendent for Instruction
Virginia Department of Education
Phone:  (804) 225-2034
E-mail: Linda.Wallinger@doe.virginia.gov

PIW/LMW

Attachment:

1. Application for College Readiness Center Grant (Word)