Preparing Students for the Benefits of Postsecondary Education
The College Reach-Out Program is a State of Florida grant-funded program designed to prepare middle and high school students to successfully pursue and complete post-secondary education.
The program is funded by grants from the Florida Department of Education, the Collier County School District, private donors and Florida Gulf Coast University. There is no charge to qualified students and their families to participate.
Program Information
Each College Reach-Out Program is led by a teacher or staff member who meets with the participants weekly, supporting them academically, recording their program and school-related activities, progress, and encouraging them to reach toward high school graduation and post-secondary education.
To qualify, student must be enrolled in grades 6-12 at a school with a program established and meet at least one of the criteria's in both categories listed below:
Economic Guidelines
- Student is eligible to receive free or reduced lunch
- Family receives public assistance
- Low-income
Academic Guidelines
- Potential first-generation college student
- Low standardized test scores
- Low grade point average (GPA)
During the school year, there is an assortment of academic support offered, including:
- ACT/SAT Boot Camps
- Academic Enrichment and Supplemental Instruction
- Academic Counseling
- Tutoring resources
During the summer months, there is an assortment of programs and workshops dedicated to college and career research including:
- College Tours
- "College for a day" Workshops
- Financial Aid Workshops
- Career Development Workshops
How to Apply
If you are interested in completing an application for the College Reach-Out Program (CROP) please follow these steps:
Check the eligibility criteria listed on this website
Determine if you attend one of the program schools or agencies (list on this website)
Complete ALL parts of the Application
Have a Parent or Guardian sign and date the application
Submit completed application and school transcript to the CROP Coordinator at your school or agency (If unsure of who that is, contact the Office of Outreach Programs.)
You will be contacted by the email or phone number you provided on your application, if we need further information.
History of the College Reach-Out Program
The College Reach Out Program was established by the Florida Legislature in 1983 in order to identify, motivate and prepare disadvantaged middle and high school students to complete post-secondary education. The program targets low-income and future first-generation college students currently in grades 6 through 12. It motivates students to develop basic learning skills, strengthens parent and student understanding of the benefits of post-secondary education, and fosters personal and career development through supplemental instruction.
