Post High School Planning

At Kingston High School, we recognize that figuring out how to fund your higher education can be a daunting task. However, with numerous financial aid options available, our goal is to simplify this journey for you. The role of financial aid in your college application process is pivotal, and we are committed to being by your side throughout. Here, you will find a comprehensive collection of resources and information aimed at jumpstarting your financial aid journey.

Choosing Between FAFSA and WASFA

As an aspiring college student, one of the primary dilemmas you may face is whether to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or the WASFA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid). Both are designed to evaluate your financial aid eligibility, but they come with distinct differences.

The FAFSA is a federal form designed to determine your qualification for federal student aid, such as loans, grants, and work-study programs. In contrast, the WASFA is a state-specific application intended for students ineligible for federal aid due to their immigration status but meet certain eligibility standards set by the state of Washington.

We suggest using this free, confidential online questionnaire that will direct you towards the suitable application for your situation.

Remember, our devoted counseling team at Kingston High School is always available to assist you in deciphering these intricate processes. Whether it's about choosing the right financial aid application, understanding different aid types, or decoding the lingo, we're here for you.

Higher education is an investment in your future, and financial aid can make this investment more achievable. Allow us to help you access the resources necessary to attain your academic aspirations.

As the prospect of higher education draws nearer, one of the major considerations might be how to pay for your college education. At the Kingston High School Counseling Center, we have put together an all-encompassing guide to clarify the scholarship opportunities that await you.

Understanding Scholarships

A scholarship is a financial award given to students to support their undergraduate studies. The best part? Scholarships do not need to be repaid. They are awarded based on several factors such as academic excellence, athletic prowess, leadership qualities, community service, artistic abilities, and other unique interests.

Local Scholarships: KHS Opportunities

At Kingston High School, we are privileged to have a community that prioritizes education. Our local patrons have set up numerous scholarships exclusively for KHS students. The eligibility criteria for these scholarships vary, including factors like academic performance, financial need, prospective major, and participation in specific school activities. Information about these scholarships can be found here.

Statewide Scholarships: College Bound Scholarship and TheWashBoard.org

As students in Washington State, you have access to several statewide scholarship options:

The College Bound Scholarship is a pledge from the state to provide financial aid to eligible students. It collaborates with other state aid to cover average tuition (at equivalent public colleges), certain fees, and a modest book allowance.

TheWashBoard.org is a free, online scholarship platform solely for Washington residents, connecting students with scholarship providers throughout the state.

Nationwide Scholarships

National scholarships are accessible to all students across the country. While these scholarships are highly competitive due to a larger pool of applicants, they often offer substantial financial aid. Notable ones include the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and the Gates Millennium Scholars Program. An exhaustive search engine like Scholarships.com can be an invaluable tool to uncover these opportunities.

Commencing with Scholarship Applications

Scholarship applications typically require a personal essay, letters of recommendation, and proof of your qualifications (such as academic transcripts or a resume). When letters of recommendation are required, the KHS Counseling Center provides a Letter of Recommendation Request Form for your convenience.

A crucial factor in successful scholarship applications is starting early. This enables you to apply for as many scholarships as you can. Always be mindful of deadlines, establish a checklist for each application, and ensure your applications are accurate and complete before submission.

Conclusion

While the scholarship application process may appear daunting, remember that every scholarship, regardless of its size, helps decrease your overall educational expenses. The KHS Counseling Center is dedicated to guiding you through this process and we are open to any queries you might have.

Are you ready to take a significant stride towards your academic future? The Running Start program at Olympic College offers a unique opportunity for you to excel academically, push boundaries, and leap into the future.

About the Running Start Program

Running Start is a distinctive program designed for academically advanced students. This program enables eligible juniors and seniors to enroll in college-level courses at Olympic College while completing their high school requirements.

In the 2020-2021 academic year, more than 1,100 students participated in Running Start at Olympic College. An overwhelming majority, approximately 95%, opted for academic prep or transfer classes. Remarkably, at least 15% earned an associate degree and high school diploma concurrently. Many students thrive in the college environment, often exceeding their own academic expectations.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Running Start program, you must:

1. Be under the age of 21 at the beginning of the school year.
2. Be classified as a junior or senior in Washington.
3. Not have received a high school diploma or earned the credits for a diploma (excluding a GED) at the start of the school year.
4. Have a cumulative high school GPA of 2.5 or above.

GPA Appeal Process

Students who do not meet the cumulative 2.5 GPA requirement may submit a letter of appeal requesting an exception due to extenuating circumstances. The appeal should be emailed to RSAdmissions@olympic.edu.

What Does the Program Cover?

The Running Start program covers up to 15 credits tuition-free, based on a student's combined high school and Olympic College schedule. Courses numbered 100 level or above are included.

Student Responsibilities

Students are expected to pay for:

1. Tuition and fees for credits exceeding the approved classes between high school and Olympic College.
2. Mandatory college fees.
3. Additional class fees, such as online classes.
4. Books and transportation.
5. Courses numbered below 100.
6. Summer quarter classes, if enrolling.

Why Choose Running Start?

Running Start offers a fantastic opportunity for motivated students to get a head start on their college education while saving on tuition costs. Not only does it provide the experience of a college environment, but it also enables students to challenge themselves academically.

Interested in learning more? You can visit the official Olympic College Running Start program webpage here for more detailed information. Also, don't hesitate to reach out to your school counselor to guide you through the process and help answer any questions you may have.

Running Start at Olympic College is not just a program - it's a leap towards your bright future. Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity, KHS students. Be bold, take the leap, and start running!

Navigating the maze of options available after high school can be daunting. While many consider traditional routes such as university education, there's a powerful, yet often overlooked pathway: apprenticeships. Apprenticeships are formalized, structured training programs that blend on-the-job training (OJT) and related technical instruction to provide both practical and technical training.

Structure of Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships generally require between 2,000 to 8,000 work hours to complete, depending on the complexity and nature of the trade. For each year of apprenticeship (approximately 2,000 hours), about 144 hours are dedicated to apprenticeship-related training. This structure ensures a balanced, comprehensive understanding of the chosen field.

Earning and Learning Simultaneously

One of the most appealing aspects of apprenticeships is the "earn while you learn" model. Apprentices receive a living wage throughout the training process, with periodic raises reflecting their increased experience and commitment. This model allows apprentices to build a secure financial foundation while developing industry-specific skills.

Mentorship and Guidance

Apprentices have the unique opportunity to learn directly from experienced professionals in their field of interest. These mentors provide guidance, share practical insights, and help apprentices build a robust professional network - a priceless asset for career growth.

Pathway to Internationally Recognized Careers

Upon completion of an apprenticeship, individuals earn a trade certification that is recognized internationally. This certification attests to their proficiency and can open doors to rewarding careers both domestically and globally.

Lower Educational Debt

Unlike traditional education pathways, apprenticeships can significantly reduce, or even eliminate, the burden of educational debt. The combination of paid work and often included tuition assistance for related coursework allows apprentices to gain qualifications without substantial financial strain.

More Information

For more information about apprenticeships in Washington, visit WA Career Paths - Apprenticeships. To learn about the PSNS Naval Shipyard and their Career Programs, check out PSNS Career Programs.

If you have further questions about apprenticeships, don't hesitate to reach out to your local resources. At Kingston High School, you can contact College & Career Counselor, Marja Bjarnson, in Blue Pod Office 233B..

In conclusion, apprenticeships offer a robust and valuable pathway for post-high school career planning. They provide theoretical learning, practical experience, a steady income, mentorship, and lead to internationally recognized trade certifications. For many, apprenticeships can indeed be the stepping stone to a fulfilling and successful career.