The Carson City Schools Foundation is seeking community donors to match its efforts to “Sponsor a Student” for the Western Nevada College Jump Start College program. From now through June 30, the foundation is supporting and will match community sponsorships up to $6,250 total to help make up the cost of textbooks and materials for the upcoming school year. The Jump Start College program is a dual-enrollment opportunity for high school students to experience college courses through WNC while simultaneously earning high school credits. Jump Start College participants are able to complete up to 60 college credits through WNC, often earning them an associate’s degree around the same time they earn their high school diploma. Earning an associate’s degree while simultaneously graduating from high school helps participants save nearly two years’ worth of money in college tuition. The grant funding for the joint program with WNC was canceled earlier this year. The Carson City School District plans to continue to support the program through the Distributive Student Account as part of its commitment to College and Career Ready curriculum, but this support did not include the cost of books and materials. The approximate cost for Jump Start College materials for the projected enrollment of 125 students is expected to be $12,500, or $100 per student. The foundation has committed funds for half of the amount and is looking for community support in donations to match its commitment. If the foundation exceeds the total amount needed for Jump Start, additional funds raised and donated by the community will be added to other grant programs including department and individual student grants and the foundation’s popular Mini-Grant program, which supports teachers and staff with funding for creative, educational projects traditional funding sources might not reach. “We have a very generous community here in Carson City, and I know there are many businesses and community partners that would be more than willing to assist the Carson City Schools Foundation in supporting this effort,” said Steven Reynolds, chairperson of the CCSF Board. “What I’ve found, though, is many are unaware of specific needs such as these.” For more information, visit ccschoolsfoundation.org. CCSF is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting community involvement and investment in the public schools of Carson City.
