Path to Success
Kirtland Community College PATH TO SUCCESS Program
Helping local students reach their highest potential
The Path to Success Program promotes academic achievement cultural awareness, social development and higher education to academically promising students who face challenges in pursuing post-secondary education.
The program follows the selected students from seventh grade through high school graduation, and hopefully into college. Students are encouraged to reach their highest potential through activities and opportunities that broaden their horizons, expose them to higher education, and provide them with mentoring opportunities.
Who is Eligible?
The Path to Success program inducts new 7th grade students each year from Houghton Lake, Roscommon, Charlton Heston Academy, Our Lady of the Lake and Crawford-Ausable schools. Students are nominated by a school counselor. Selections are made based on academic promise and need.
Programming Overview from 7th to 12th grade
Starting in 7th and 8th grades, students work on character building, teamwork skills and cultural enrichment. Learning opportunities include museums, plays, restaurants, zoos, Science exhibits, and trips to the state capitol and the KCC Grayling campus.
For students in 9th and 10th grade, Path to Success focuses on volunteerism and service learning. Students learn study skills, financial and time management skills, and begin job shadowing.
In 11th and 12th grade, students focus on college preparation and job readiness. Programming includes college visits, application and financial aid process, transitioning to college, dual enrollment in college classes, resume development, interview skills, soft skills, and a capstone trip.
How Does PTS Achieve its Goals?
Students develop a peer support network. Generally, they build relationships and encourage each other to live up to program expectations. Through mentoring and positive interactions with college personnel and students, as well as other Path to Success members, students gain invaluable insight into higher education and career development.
In addition, monthly events are designed to be well-rounded in education, social/fun, civic and cultural. Examples include museums, rock-climbing walls, zoos, college visits, hands-on workshops on anything from finances and time management to forensic science and speaking Spanish, help with college applications, financial aid, and so much more.
Expectations for Students
- Active participation
- Positive attitude
- Willingness to try new things
- Support for their peers
- Working hard academically
- Maintaining a positive conduct record in school
Expectations for Parents or Guardians
- Commitment to the program
- Communication with program coordinator
- Participation in surveys that we use to monitor success and improve the program
- Arrange transportation to and from the KCC Grayling Campus for all events – typically the second Saturday of the month
- No cost to parents – occasional fun money
For more information, contact:
Mary Jo Buschbacher
Path to Success Coordinator
[email protected]
