The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential has announced that $10 million has been awarded to 75 school districts and public school academies statewide as part of the Universal Free Application for Federal Student Aid Challenge.

This initiative is designed to increase FAFSA completion rates among Michigan high school seniors, connect students with more financial aid, and increase the number of students enrolling in college and career training after high school.

The three Upper Peninsula school districts that received awards are Bark River-Harris School District, $39,691.50; Iron Mountain Public Schools, $84,145.98; and Ironwood Area Schools of Gogebic County, $59,537.25.

Completing the FAFSA is the first step for students to access state and federal scholarships and loans, including the Michigan Achievement Scholarship and Community College Guarantee, which offers students up to $27,500 toward a four-year degree or a tuition-free pathway toward earning a skill certificate or associate degree.

While recent changes in Washington D.C. may make it seem as if public education is under attack, organizations like MiLEAP are continuing the vital task of ensuring that education at all levels is avaialble for everyone, not just those who are well off financially.

“We commend the 75 districts that have embraced this initiative to help more students complete their FAFSA,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “This funding reinforces MiLEAP’s commitment to ensuring that every learner has the tools and resources they need to succeed. By increasing FAFSA completion rates, we are creating more affordable pathways to higher education opportunities so more Michiganders can earn a college degree or skill certificate and go on to thrive right here in Michigan.

Participating districts will use the awarded funds to integrate FAFSA completion into their high school graduation requirements, with a straightforward opt-out provision for qualifying students.

Districts are committed to implementing/ evidence-based FAFSA completion strategies and activities/ that provide essential supports to students throughout the application process.

MiLEAP is proud to partner with the Michigan College Access Network to support districts in their efforts.

We hope that continuing efforts to ensure that everyone is able to get an education will continue in Michigan, as an educated population raises the quality of life for everyone.