CollegeReady, a nonprofit organization that helps local students pay for college and prepares them for success, is sending their Class of 2022 NEW Scholars college readiness program participants off to college.

On May 27 at University of Wisconsin-Green Bay’s Weidner Center for the Performing Arts, CollegeReady gathered its latest class of NEW Scholars college readiness program graduates for College Signing Day. In partnership with UW-Green Bay, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, St. Norbert College, and the Green Bay Area Public School District, College Signing Day celebrates and encourages students as they sign their letter of intent to study at their chosen college/university this fall.

“Our graduating NEW Scholars set their sights on earning a college degree way back in middle school,” explains CollegeReady Executive Director Brent Roubal. “In fact, many of them have been in the program since the sixth grade. We are proud of their drive and determination to become the first person in their family to attend college.”

Data from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction shows that only 40% of all economically disadvantaged students in Wisconsin high schools will pursue postsecondary education. By contrast, 95% of graduating NEW Scholars will attend college after this school year.

“The Green Bay Area Public School District is incredibly fortunate to have CollegeReady as a partner in ensuring our students can meet their postsecondary educational and career goals,” stated Interim Superintendent Vicki Bayer. “CollegeReady’s efforts to break down barriers, especially financial barriers, opens doors for our students that they may not have otherwise considered.”

Available to students within the Green Bay Area Public School district, the NEW Scholars program was established to help underserved youth become the first person in their family to graduate from college.

These students have been accepted at UW-Green Bay, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC), St. Norbert College, UW-Milwaukee, UW-Oshkosh, Dominican University, and other Wisconsin colleges and universities.

“It’s crucial that first-generation students have the tools and confidence to pursue their passions. Organizations like CollegeReady are fundamental in that process,” NWTC Vice President of Student Services Colleen Simpson said. “As a long-standing partner of CollegeReady, we will continue to make college possible for all learners. Together, we will carry on our commitment to support first-generation students.”

Through academic support, college prep, parent workshops, service learning, and so much more, NEW Scholars breaks down barriers to higher education that exist for many low-income and first-generation students. In addition, participants earn up to a $5,000 scholarship toward their college expenses.

This article originally appeared here.