How 1 Principal & College Connection Are Creating a Cultural Shift in 1 High School

What would you say if your investment went from $91,000 to $1.4 million dollars in a single year? That’s what happened at Maplewood High School from 2011 to 2012. Collectively, the graduating class of 2011 recived a mere $91,000 in grants and scholarships for their college education. Appalling? Yes. But what happened next was nothing short of miraculous. Principal Ron Woodard, along with a dedicated team of Oasis College Connection mentors, put their heads and hearts together and began what is equal to a socially concious cultural shift. Within a single year, their efforts paid great rewards to the 2012 graduating class: Grants and scholarships totalling $1.4 million dollars. Most of these graduating seniors will be the first in their families to go to college. Most of them thought they either couldn’t afford college, weren’t “college material” or simply didn’t have the tools and encouragement to seek out college opportunities. The change was so dynamic, Nashville Public Television did a story about it that has quickly garnered attention across the U.S.:  Empowering Through Education.

Oasis College Connection has “College Zones” in 17 high schools in Nashville. Through its team of college mentors, this team has helped nearly 800 young people navigate their way into college successfully. Another extension of the “College Zone” recently opened its doors at Nashville State Community College to focus on retaining students who are placed at that college. Staying in college can be a challenge for students who may not have a strong support sytem at home or are trying to balance a job, school and other responsibilities. Our on-site staff ensures they have the tools they need to stay in school.

For more information about Oasis College Connection, visit them online: Oasis College Connection