'Reach Higher' initiative begins

INA – High school students in Rend Lake College’s district are making big plans for the future, thanks to the “Reach Higher” nationwide initiative. RLC has teamed up with the “Reach Higher” campaign to get incoming freshmen excited about higher education.

Last month, RLC advisors visited Sesser-Valier High School as the first of all the high schools in the district. During these trips, students interested in signing up for classes at RLC will literally “sign” with the college on a poster after enrolling.

Jena Jensik, Director of Academic Advisement, said the initiative is another way RLC is looking to help students make smart plans for their future.

“We’re taking part in College Signing Day to recognize and celebrate the decision of our area high school graduates to continue their education,” said Jensik. “The choice to further one’s education should be celebrated. Starting college is an exciting venture, and we are grateful they chose to begin their journey at Rend Lake College.”

RLC advisors will be at Benton Consolidated High School on the “Reach Higher” campaign’s official College Signing Day of Tuesday, April 26, with many stops before and after.

Advisors will be at Waltonville High School on April 12, Wayne City High School on April 13, Webber Township High School on April 14, NCOE on April 19, Thompsonville High School on April 20, Christopher High School on April 21, Woodlawn High School on April 22, Zeigler-Royalton High School on May 3, Hamilton County High School on May 4-5, and Mt. Vernon Township High School on May 9-13. Students at Pinckneyville Community High School are currently registering at the RLC Murphy-Wall campus.

The “Reach Higher” initiative was launched by First Lady Michelle Obama as a way to provide encouragement for students and activating educators, counselors, and other adults to help young people see college as an option, states the campaign’s website.

According to information from the Reach Higher initiative, education after high school is a critical part of a successful future. College graduates have more opportunities than those who choose not to pursue their education past high school. Studies have found that college graduates are set to make 84 percent more over their lifetimes than high school graduates.