Program Helps Students Pursue Post-High School Dreams

Staff Report

Nearly 30 students who were part of the class of 2014 at Riverwood International Charter School students who took part in this year’s Seniors Achieving in Life (SAIL) program.

Along with the students, 13 adult volunteers participated in the initiative, a rewarding and effective program that pairs adult volunteers with high school seniors who need assistance navigating the college application process. 

Volunteers meet with their assigned students on a weekly basis during the student’s lunch period to research post graduate opportunities, complete applications, and apply for scholarships.

SAIL is funded by a grant from the Sandy Springs Education Force and collaborates with the Counseling Center. 

SSEF is nonprofit focused on inspiring and supporting all Sandy Springs public school students to graduate and pursue productive lives beyond high school by providing educational and enrichment programs through community collaboratives. 

When SAIL began with the class of 2012, only 19 students participated. Now in its third year, the program served 28 students; almost half of these students will be the first members of their families to attend college. 

Financial support from SSEF covers expenses such as application and transcript fees. SSEF also sponsors the annual breakfast reception to congratulate the students and thank the adult volunteers. 

The Riverwood International Charter High School Counseling Center will be recruiting volunteers next year and will provide training in January 2015.