Valencia College’s Osceola Campus opened its doors wide on Tuesday evening to high school students in Osceola County looking to learn more about Osceola Prosper, a program funded by the Osceola County Commissioners designed to dismantle financial barriers to higher education, enabling students to attend either Valencia College or Osceola Technical College without the burden of tuition fees.
Informational sessions, available in both English and Spanish, provided students with a thorough understanding of the program, including guidance on applying for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrollment for the upcoming Valencia College summer and fall semesters.
In 2023, approximately 2,500 high school graduates seized this opportunity, representing nearly half of the graduating class. This significant participation contributed to a near 20% increase in Valencia College’s college-going rate from 2021 to 2022. With a third year of funding approved for FY 2024, Osceola Prosper’s commitment to the community’s educational and economic future is stronger than ever.
Commissioner Brandon Arrington, pivotal in launching Osceola Prosper in March 2022, expressed, “Osceola Prosper is a testament to our commitment to the future of Osceola County. This award recognizes the visionary leadership of Osceola County Commissioners. With a focus on education and creating a globally competitive economy, we are shaping a future where every high school graduate has the opportunity to thrive. We are honored and remain dedicated to fostering a healthy, sustainable, and resilient region.”
Unique among similar initiatives nationwide, Osceola Prosper grants recipients five years to utilize the resources, accommodating those who must balance education with work. This flexibility, coupled with the promise of two years of paid college or technical training for every high school graduate in the county, has enabled around 5,000 residents to enhance their career prospects and futures significantly.
In 2023 the Osceola County Commissioners were honored with the Regional Diamond Award for Regional Prosperity by the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council (ECFRPC), acknowledging their foresight in creating Osceola Prosper.
Osceola Prosper is not just a program; it’s a pledge from the Osceola County Commissioners to equip local students with the education and opportunities they need to secure higher-paying jobs and contribute positively to their community. For more details on Osceola Prosper, visit www.OsceolaProsper.com.
