CCRI to Get $475,000 in Federal Funding for Low-Income Students

In an effort to help more Rhode Island students stay in school and overcome barriers to higher education, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) has announced that the will receive $476,854 in federal funding to provide academic, career, and financial counseling to local middle and high school students while encouraging them to graduate high school and enroll in post-secondary education programs.

The program targets students from low-income families where neither parent has earned a college degree and helps them with study skills, preparing for college entrance exams, guidance on career options, and applying for financial aid, according to the announcement.

CCRI's award is through a competitive federal grant under the U.S. Department of Education’s Talent Search Program, Reed's announcement stated. Senator Reed helped institute the Talent Search Program when he co-authored the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008, according to his staff.

“CCRI does a great job of reaching out to students and providing them with opportunities for academic development.  This federal funding will enable CCRI to help more young people stay in school and reach their full potential,” said Reed.

“We continue to be grateful to Senator Reed and all he has done for Rhode Island and for CCRI. This is another example of his understanding the needs of students and of helping those in need receive a quality education,” said CCRI President Ray Di Pasquale.

CCRI will use the Talent Search Program funding to serve students at 11 middle and high schools throughout Rhode Island.