Valencia College's Osceola campus opened its doors to the public Tuesday night for Osceola County high school students to learn more about Osceola Prosper. The program is an Osceola County Commission-funded program designed to remove financial barriers to higher education and allow students to attend one of Valencia Colleges. Or you can enroll at Osceola Institute of Technology without paying tuition.
Information sessions conducted in both English and Spanish provided students with a thorough understanding of the program, including guidance on applying for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and registering for the upcoming summer and fall semesters at the University of Valencia. I was able to make them understand.
In 2023, approximately 2,500 high school graduates, nearly half of the graduating class, will seize this opportunity. Due to this great participation, his acceptance rate at the University of Valencia increased by nearly 20% from 2021 to 2022. With the approval of her third year of funding in fiscal year 2024, Osceola Prosper’s commitment to the educational and economic future of our community is stronger than ever.
“Osceola Prosper is a testament to our commitment to the future of Osceola County,” said Commissioner Brandon Arrington, a key player in the launch of Osceola Prosper in March 2022. “This award recognizes the foresight of the Osceola County Commissioners. It recognizes the visionary leadership of students who are shaping a future where all high school graduates have the opportunity to thrive by focusing on education and building a globally competitive economy. We are honored and remain committed to fostering a healthy, sustainable and resilient region.”
Unique among similar initiatives across the country, Osceola Prosper gives recipients a five-year grant to access resources, with consideration for those who must balance education and work. This flexibility, combined with her promise of two years of paid college or technical training to every high school graduate in the county, has enabled approximately 5,000 residents to significantly improve their career prospects and futures.
In 2023, Osceola County Commissioners received the Regional Diamond Award for Regional Prosperity from the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council (ECFRPC) for their foresight in creating Osceola Prosper.
Osceola Prosper is more than just a program. This is the Osceola County Commissioners' pledge to provide local students with the education and opportunities they need to secure good-paying jobs and actively contribute to their communities. For more information about Osceola Prosper, please visit www.OsceolaProsper.com.
