Owens Community College has received a $325,000 a grant from the Gateway to College National Network to help implement a nationally recognized dropout recovery program.

“Gateway to College” is designed to help young adults ages 16 to 21 who have dropped out of high school or are significantly behind in credits and unlikely to graduate to complete high school diploma requirements while simultaneously earning college credit toward an associate degree or certificate.

“Owens Community College is extremely honored to be chosen by Gateway to College National Network as the first academic institution in Ohio to offer the Gateway to College program,” said John Satkowski, Owens Interim President.

Up to 150 students from Toledo Public Schools will be served through the program over the next three years. Students must meet specific criteria for entrance into the program and will be dually enrolled at their K-12 district and at Owens until they complete their high school diploma. Tuition and books are free for students enrolled in the program.

Dr. Jerome Pecko, Superintendent of Toledo Public Schools, said, “We’re most grateful to Gateway to College National Network for supporting this initiative. Assisting young adults who have not completed their high school education has become one of Toledo Public Schools’ primary goals. The Gateway program’s unique incentives – a fully paid dual credit program with a comprehensive system of support – virtually eliminate traditionally insurmountable barriers.

“This program will not only benefit the youth who participate, but also the community in which they reside. After all, education is a key component of and directly related to the vitality of every community,” Dr. Pecko said.

Students are placed into small learning communities during their first (Foundation) term, and together they take classes in reading, writing, math and college skills. After completing the Foundation term, students transition to the comprehensive campus, taking classes with the general student population. Throughout their enrollment in the program, students receive one-on-one advising and support from resource specialists who act as coaches, mentors and advisors. The wrap-around support of the resource specialist keeps students on the right track for success.

Students graduate from Gateway to College once they have completed their high school diploma requirements. Nationally, Gateway to College students accrue an average of 35 college credits by the time they graduate from the program, putting them well on their way to earning a college credential.

Owens Community College is one of 37 community and technical colleges across the country currently offering the Gateway to College program.

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