Skagit Valley College joins Education First to boost postsecondary enrollment

Skagit Valley College is partnering with Education First, as a part of their ‘Limitless’ Postsecondary Enrollment Learning Network, for the next four academic years through 2026-27.

The $25,000 grant, secured by the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation, will drive collaborative efforts between SVC and the Oak Harbor School District. The primary goal is to develop and implement strategies to increase higher education enrollment. Key responsibilities will involve close coordination with the Sno-Isle Libraries for effective planning and implementation.

SVC representatives will actively participate in meetings at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation as members of the Limitless Network. This collaboration aims to enhance SVC’s existing initiatives while also opening avenues for additional grant opportunities.

“We are excited to be in partnership with the Sno-Isle Library and Oak Harbor School District to improve post-secondary enrollment,” said Yadira Rosales, Associate Vice President for Equity and Inclusion at SVC. “This partnership provides the opportunity to develop innovative strategies by focusing on the strengths of community voice and that of the partnership with the school district and library to increase student enrollment in higher education.”

Grant Overview

Education First, generously supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, is establishing “Limitless,” a Postsecondary Enrollment Learning Network. Comprising up to 25 partnerships across Washington state, this initiative focuses on strengthen the pathway from high school to postsecondary education. The core principle of equity guides the Learning Network, with a special emphasis on serving students facing significant barriers, including those from Black, Latinx, and Indigenous communities, as well as students from low-income backgrounds and rural areas.

Each partnership within the Learning Network, including SVC, is mandated to include at least one K-12 district and one institute of higher education based in Washington state. Practitioner leaders within these partnerships will concentrate on key objectives: building awareness and improving access to strategies supporting postsecondary enrollment, enhancing partnership capacities, and advancing data capacity.

For more information about Education First’s “Limitless” Postsecondary Enrollment Learning Network, visit education-first.com/limitless-learning-network.

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Skagit Valley College is making a difference throughout Skagit, Island, and San Juan counties by providing access to higher education for all who seek a better future. Part of what makes our college special is that we are deeply committed to equity in access, achievement, and community. Whether you fare training for a new job, beginning your college experience, finishing the degree you started, adding English language skills, or pursuing a high school credential, Skagit Valley College welcomes you.