Here is a brief overview of the many ways GRASP is helping Virginia's youth attain educational success.
in-school advising
In-School Advising – GRASP fills a specific need in 111 high schools by educating students about how to fund post-secondary education and providing hands-on help to follow through with the required applications. This is an involved process made more complicated by an array of deadlines and necessary information. In-school advisors work within high school counseling departments where they are welcomed for their particular expertise in post-secondary financial aid.
SOAR Virginia® – At 49 high schools, GRASP implements SOAR Virginia®, an early commitment program funded by Virginia529℠ that serves students in 10th through 12th grade. Advisors work with participating students on financial literacy, attendance, grades, community service, post-secondary school options and post-secondary financial aid. Students who meet the program requirements can receive up to $2,000 in scholarships funded by Virginia529.
Summer Texting Program – During the summer following high school graduation, our texting program gives students a lifeline for help with roadblocks that arise between graduation and matriculation. Once enrolled, they may take advantage of GRASP’s College Success Program.
College Success
Students have the opportunity to continue to receive support after high school graduation through the College Success Program, which uses a near-peer approach. The College Success Advisor, a recent college graduate, mentors students as they matriculate to a post-secondary institution. The program's focus on post-secondary retention is achieved through social media, email programs, and problem-solving services. The College Success GRASP advisor leverages existing college support systems while providing personalized assistance. Participating students may also apply for College Success Scholarships for post-secondary expenses.
Speakers Bureau
GRASP launched its new Speakers Bureau in October 2022 with a cohort of GRASP advisors who have years of experience and specialized training. Our advisors currently offer seven different topical presentations for audiences including schools and community organizations.
Middle school
GRASP participates in the annual ChamberRVA Mission Tomorrow event, providing information and resources to students about exploring career options, including skilled trades, and the post-secondary educational pathways required to attain them. It’s never too early for students to start thinking about their futures!
GRASP offers our “On Track for College” presentation for middle school students and parents through our Speakers Bureau. Presentations are offered free of charge for schools and community groups.
More Resources for Middle School Students and Parents
Checklists for Academic and Financial Preparation: Checklists that help students, as well as adults and parents, prepare financially and academically for college.
Career Search: Explore potential careers using this career search tool with info on typical duties, education needed, average salary, and more.
I Want That Job!: A video series about interesting jobs and what it takes to get them.
grasp ScholarshiPS
Last Dollar Scholarships* – The GRASP in-school advisors are typically able to assemble a sizable financial aid package for students. However, expenses for books, technology needs, and other costs are frequently not covered by the financial aid package. As a result, some students are unable to attend the institution of their choice. The need for small, targeted Last Dollar Scholarships became apparent, and through the generosity of business and personal donors, these scholarships have become possible. GRASP awards at least one Last Dollar Scholarship per high school it serves.
Community College Scholarships* – A scholarship program designed to assist students in either obtaining a workforce credential or transferring from community college to receive a baccalaureate degree from one of Virginia’s colleges and universities at a much lower cost and with less debt. Select applicants will be awarded a scholarship of $1000 applied to their first year of community college which may be renewed for a second year. These scholarships help meet the cost of books, a computer, or other expenses not covered by the student’s financial aid package.
PreK-12 Education Improvement Scholarships* - An important mission of GRASP is to provide children of families in poverty with a pathway out of poverty through education. While all economically disadvantaged students are eligible for assistance from GRASP, we have a special interest in students with disabilities as those students not only have to overcome poverty, but often have learning differences requiring additional educational support. Donors who contribute through the EIS tax credit program can fund scholarships to support students from lower-resourced families in attending preK-12 private schools. Through this program, a student may receive up to 100% of the state share of Standards of Quality (SOQ) (300% for students with an IEP), which varies per locality. For example, the 100% State Share of SOQ Funding Per Pupil in the City of Richmond is currently $5,626.
Eligible schools where students are receiving scholarships during the 2022-2023 academic year:
New Vistas School Northstar Academy Riverside School The New Community School
*GRASP’s scholarships are dependent on donor support.
NAP and EISP Tax Credit Programs
Virginia’s Neighborhood Assistance Act and Education Improvement Scholarships Tax Credit Programs help provide assistance to students in disadvantaged communities to access educational opportunities.
