We are incredibly proud of the work being done in the SLCC SLSS 1020 College Readiness course, an essential dual-enrollment opportunity that is directly preparing our students for life after high school. This class, pioneered by Ms. Wihongi two years ago, goes far beyond the typical curriculum to build a foundation of academic, financial, and emotional readiness that has a demonstrated impact on post-secondary success.

The Enduring Value of SLSS 1020

The primary goal of the College Readiness course is to demystify the college experience and equip students with the necessary tools to not just enroll, but to thrive. Ms. Wihongi’s dedication to this course ensures that our students gain competency in four critical areas:

• Financial Literacy and Aid: Students learn to navigate the complex world of FAFSA, scholarships, and financial aid options, turning an often-overwhelming process into a clear action plan.

• Essential Study Skills: The course sharpens academic behaviors like time management, note-taking, and critical reading, which are indispensable for succeeding in college-level coursework.

• Opportunities for Growth: Students learn about campus resources, co-curricular involvement, and how to effectively self-advocate, empowering them to maximize their personal and academic growth in a university setting.

• Experiential Exploration: The class includes tours of Utah campuses, providing crucial, firsthand exposure to different higher education environments.

Inspiration on Campus: The UVU Field Trip

The recent campus tour to Utah Valley University (UVU) exemplified the value of this course. Students were able to walk the halls, visualize their future, and connect their in-class learning to the real world. The trip featured two memorable and inspiring moments:

1. Running into President Tuminez: Our students had the exciting opportunity to meet UVU President Dr. Astrid S. Tuminez! This chance encounter offered a powerful moment of connection and motivation.

2. Alumni Excellence: One of the dedicated UVU Ambassadors leading the tour was Hannah Hill, MHS Student Body Vice President from last year. Seeing a recent alumna already excelling and giving back reinforces the tangible outcomes of pursuing higher education.

A Commitment to Student Persistence and Pioneering Work

The district commends Ms. Wihongi for her pioneering work in establishing this critical dual-enrollment class two years ago. Recognizing that academic knowledge alone is not enough, she championed this course to specifically address the transitional challenges students face.

The effort to enhance college readiness is not simply about getting students in the door; it's about ensuring they persist and ultimately graduate.Data consistently supports this approach: studies show that for students who meet more college readiness benchmarks (like those emphasized in SLSS 1020), their chances of completing a bachelor's degree increase significantly. In fact, research indicates that effective college readiness interventions are strong predictors of students' success, particularly their likelihood of returning for the second year of college.

By providing our students with a deep understanding of financial aid and strong academic skills, Ms. Wihongi’s class is a vital investment in their long-term educational and career success. We look forward to seeing the continued positive outcomes this program yields for our students.