Ravenswood High School wins American College Application Campaign School of Excellence Award

CHARLESTON, WV – Ravenswood High School is a recipient of ACT’s American College Application Campaign (ACAC) School of Excellence Award for their commitment to postsecondary student success. ACAC is a national effort to increase the number of first-generation college students and students from low-income families pursuing a college degree or other higher education credential. Twenty-three schools from across the nation were selected for this award based on their demonstrated commitment to student success and for serving as exemplary models for their state’s college application campaign.

Collaborators from all fifty states and the District of Columbia submit recommendations for School of Excellence of Awards. College for West Virginia (CFWV) works with ACAC to host College Application and Exploration Week (CAEW), a statewide campaign that encourages and helps students explore postsecondary opportunities, apply to colleges and file the FAFSA. Participation in CAEW as well as student success data informs recommendations for School of Excellence Award.

West Virginia’s CAEW initiative is part of a larger national effort coordinated by ACAC. It  is one of CFWV’s three statewide college-planning milestone events that, along with College Decision Day and statewide FAFSA completion events, help guide students and their families in planning, applying, paying and enrolling in college. Each year in West Virginia, nearly 400 schools from Pre-K to high school participate in CAEW. Schools are encouraged to host a variety of fun activities aimed at building excitement about the college exploration process and informing students of postsecondary options.

Schools across the state are working harder than ever to support college access and student success programming aimed at preparing more students for postsecondary programs,” stated Elizabeth Manuel, Senior Director of Student Services at the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission. “Ravenswood High School stood out for a number of reasons. Programming to increase FAFSA completion rates coupled with participation in various college-readiness programs demonstrated their commitment to student achievement. Their staff and personnel go above and beyond to remove barriers and provide opportunities for students to succeed.”

“The counseling staff at Ravenswood High School provides so many opportunities for our students, whether they plan to go to college or not,” stated Ravenswood Principal, Luke Swiney. “This achievement is great, and I’m happy to see our school recognized.”

For more information on the ACAC School of Excellence Award and to see a list of this year’s other winners, visit their website.

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