As she readies to move from one school to another, Peyton White understands the value of learning – even if it’s not about subject matter, but the logistics of what she needs to be ready for …
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As she readies to move from one school to another, Peyton White understands the value of learning – even if it’s not about subject matter, but the logistics of what she needs to be ready for college.
White, a Warrenton High senior, is part of the district’s aptly named “Be Ready’ program, which helps students prepare for their next steps in life by attending St. Charles Community College.
“As the only child in my family to go to college, just about any time I ask for help when doing anything related to college, nobody knows any of the processes or how to help,” White said. “Be Ready has really helped me find my footing on my own without having to fully rely on my counselors.”
Formed during the 2015-16 school year, the “Be Ready” program has 27 students enrolled for this year.
The program fosters a close relationship between Warrenton High School students and the necessary members of the St. Charles Community College admissions and financial aid teams.
Some parts of the process the program undertakes include: helping students apply to the college, coming to the high school to administer assessment tests, and returning to help students register for college at the end of their senior year.
Warrenton senior counselor Tonya McDaniel, who oversees the program, said the program's need is simple.
“I think the biggest value of the ‘Be Ready’ program is that it helps reduce barriers for students enrolling in college,” McDaniel said.
An important part of the program took place on February 3, when the “Be Ready” students toured St. Charles Community College. During this trip, students met directly with members of SCC’s admissions and financial aid teams.
White said the visit made her future seem much less scary.
“New places can also be very intimidating,” White said. “It’s very helpful to know that I already have a team of people in this new place willing to help me and walk me through anything I am confused about. The opportunity to take a tour of SCC and get an understanding and familiarity with the campus really helps me feel less helpless than I would as a regular freshman.”
