GRCC In the News, 5-28-15

GRCC success rates rise, but about half of students don’t graduate, transfer in 6 years

May 27, 2015; MLive

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Achievement rates are rising at Grand Rapids Community College, but about half of students still don’t complete a degree, earn a certificate or transfer to another institution within six years, according to a new report.

$33M raised to send Grand Rapids students to college, trade school for free

May 27, 2015; MLive

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – The Grand Rapids Community Foundation announced Wednesday it has raised $33.6 million to pay for Grand Rapids Public Schools students involved in the Challenge Scholars program to attend college or trade school.

… In addition to what’s been raised, the presidents of Aquinas College, Grand Valley State University, Ferris State University and Grand Rapids Community College announced in 2013 they each have created special scholarships for the 2020 graduates of the program.

Students Leave Their Mark Through Artwork

May 27, 2015; schoolnewsnetwork.org (Kent Intermediate School District newsletter)

Wyoming Public Schools, MI — Wyoming High School senior Lordia DiPiazza has left her signature, and it’s in the form of a smiling face looking toward the future.

… Lordia is in the Wyoming Middle College, and begins her fifth year as a Wyoming High School student next fall. Middle College students are enrolled in Wyoming and Grand Rapids Community College, and graduate after five years with both their associate’s degree and high school diploma. The fifth year is spent on the GRCC campus.

GRPS’ Parent University produces ‘Power Parents’

May 27, 2015; MLive

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Since school started last fall, Grand Rapids Public Schools has seen over 8,100 attendees at its Parent University, an initiative aimed at helping parents become full partners in their children’s education.

… (Raynard) Ross, an associate dean for student success and retention services at Grand Rapids Community College, said the development of each and every child is indeed a community effort that schools cannot do alone, or in isolation without healthy parental involvement.