SANTA MARIA — Santa Maria High School officials this month will increase the of number Saints applying for financial aid by helping them complete either the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADA), with a goal of 100 percent participation.
By filling out the forms, students can qualify for federal and state aid and are taking the first step towards college success. The Class of 2021 will complete the application within their Government and Economics classes. Students will have multiple opportunities to receive assistance via zoom, individual appointments, digital lessons on canvas, and morning and afternoon office hours.
The highest percentage of Financial Aid submissions on or before March 2nd 2021, will win caps and gowns for their entire classroom. The teacher with the winning class wins the race and a trophy with bragging rights.
“During these very difficult times we are looking for creative ways to help motivate our students do the things that will help them be successful,’’ said Assistant Saint Principal Monica Pallan. “It will be a great way to involve all stakeholders to get students to complete the FAFSA and/or CA Dream Act Application.’’
Senior Team consists of the two senior counselors (Maria Fruge and Ben Lopez) and EAOP Nancy Pacheco are the leads but the entire SMHS counseling team has a hand supporting this great cause including Ms. Washington, College and Career Specialist.
Free caps and gowns for the winning class are possible thanks to generous donations from the Santa Maria Sunrisers Lions Club, a local service club and the UCSB Early Academic Outreach Program.
There are 651 seniors.