By Carla Conradt

Austin High School Success Coach with the Austin High School Counseling Department

Austin Public Schools

This is an exciting time at Austin High School for the seniors as they make plans for graduation and post-secondary education. We are here to help. Austin High, in collaboration with Minnesota College Goal and Riverland Community College, is pleased to offer a series of free financial aid workshops in February and March. The workshops are for students who plan to attend any post-secondary institution next year.

Many students and families don’t apply for financial aid because they don’t think they’re eligible or because they don’t understand the process. The best way to find out if you qualify is to attend a Minnesota College Goal event and complete the free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) with the help of trained professionals.

A workshop usually lasts less than two hours. In addition, participating students will be entered into a drawing to receive a $500 award for the post-secondary institution of their choice.

Parents/guardians and senior students are invited to Austin High School’s Christgau Hall for help in completing the FAFSA as well as a “Cycles for Success” scholarship application. “Cycles for Success” is a marvelous opportunity offered by Riverland Community College and funded through the Hormel Foundation of Austin. More than 200 Austin High and Pacelli Catholic School students have received “Cycles for Success” scholarships since this program began in fall 2010.

Scholarships range from $1,000 to more than $6,000 per year depending on family income. The scholarships can be used at any Riverland campus or for Riverland online courses.

Please join us in Christgau Hall at Austin High School for FAFSA and “Cycles” help. We will be there at 12 p.m. or 6 p.m. Feb. 23, at 12 p.m. or 6 p.m. March 4, at 6 p.m. March 9, and at 6 p.m. March 18.

Parents and students should bring copies of their 2014 tax returns. A “Cycles for Success” presentation will take place during the first 30 minutes of each session, followed by help on the FAFSA application. We look forward to supporting families and senior students in their post-secondary journey.