Expanding College & Career Readiness in rural schools to empower students for postsecondary success
About
About Horizons
The Horizons Advising Partnership, funded by the Gates Foundation, is a three-year initiative (2024-2027) designed to enhance college and career readiness support for students in 12 rural school districts across Southwest Washington. The partnership aims to increase postsecondary enrollment, financial literacy, and dual credit access for rural students—especially BIPOC, first-generation, and low-income students—through a collaborative approach with WSU Vancouver, Clark College, and Lower Columbia College.
Key Goals and Outcomes
Supports
Student & Family Support
College and Career Readiness Advisors (CCRAs) serve as essential navigators, guiding students through the complex landscape of the many post-graduation opportunities by providing:
- One-on-one and small group planning sessions
- Information sessions and workshops for students, families, and communities
- Direct support with High School and Beyond Planning
- College application and financial aid assistance
- Connections to local career opportunities and internships
- Support for all post-secondary pathways, including trades, apprenticeships, certificates, and college programs
By providing personalized support, expert guidance, and comprehensive resources, the CCRAs help students explore diverse career options and make informed decisions that will shape their future.
“Our CCRAs really have the opportunity to become a part of each individual school district, collaborating with teachers, administrators and communities to help every student identify postsecondary goals that work for them. Our goal is for every student to graduate with a well-lit pathway for their future and to have the support they need to make that future a reality.”
Partners
Horizons Advising Partners
As the lead partner, ESD 112 has designated a grant-funded College and Career Readiness Advisor to each partner school district to work with students on career exploration, financial aid literacy, and future readiness. In addition, school districts receive resources to improve and measure the impact of student advising strategies and programs that prepare students for postsecondary success.
Participating School Districts
Castle Rock
Glenwood
Hockinson
Kalama
Klickitat
Lyle
Naselle-Grays River Valley
Ocean Beach
Stevenson-Carson
Trout Lake
Wahkiakum
White Salmon Valley
Higher Education Partners
Clark College
Lower Columbia College
WSU Vancouver
Other partners supporting this initiative include:
Resources
Resources
Explore these valuable resources to support students and families in navigating financial aid, dual credit opportunities, and career-connected learning pathways.
Financial Literacy Resources
Dual Credit Resources
Career-Connected Learning
Contacts
Who to Contact
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