In Orlando, Florida, there’s exciting news for students aiming for higher education without the burden of tuition fees. Osceola County is proudly entering its third year of a transformative initiative. This initiative guarantees free college tuition for every high school or GED graduate in the area.
The local county commissioners are set to make a significant decision on March 18. They will be deliberating on the allocation of over $8.3 million towards the Osceola Prosper program. Launched in 2022, this innovative program opens doors for graduates from various educational backgrounds. Whether you’re from a public, charter, private, or homeschool setting within the county, you have the opportunity to pursue a degree or an accelerated skills training program at Valencia College. Alternatively, Osceola Technical College is another option for students seeking practical, career-focused education.
The initiative initially kicked off with the help of federal funding. However, due to its overwhelming success, the county plans to continue supporting it primarily through its general funds. A small portion of the funding will still come from the remaining Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) funds.
For those interested in learning more about this remarkable program and how it’s making education accessible to all, you can find the full story on the Orlando Business Journal’s website. Additionally, for the latest news updates, weather forecasts, and more, you can download the free apps provided by the news outlet. And if you’re looking to catch live news broadcasts, Channel 9 Eyewitness News is available for streaming.
This initiative not only highlights Osceola County’s commitment to education but also sets a precedent for how communities can support their youth in achieving their educational and career aspirations.