The bill aims to enhance postsecondary enrollment in Washington by establishing a comprehensive support system for high school students navigating financial aid and enrollment processes. It recognizes the significant gap between students' aspirations for higher education and actual enrollment rates, particularly among lower-income households. To address this, the legislation proposes the creation of a postsecondary outreach and enrollment specialist program, ensuring that every school district has access to at least one qualified financial aid professional. This program will provide hands-on assistance to students and their families, focusing on increasing completion rates for financial aid applications and promoting postsecondary educational opportunities.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to facilitate the implementation of this program, including the establishment of a financial aid training program for educators and community partners, which will be offered at no cost. The college board will oversee the selection of participating entities, such as community colleges and public universities, to employ outreach and enrollment specialists. These specialists will work closely with high schools, particularly those serving a higher percentage of students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch, to improve financial aid application rates. The bill also mandates annual reporting on the program's effectiveness and completion rates, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement in supporting students' postsecondary aspirations.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28B.50.940
Substitute Bill: 28B.50.940