| Governor rallies students for ‘Say Go College’ Week |
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| Tuesday, 15 February 2011 16:35 |
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February 14, 2011 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Governor rallies students for ‘Say Go College’ Week NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Gov. Mike Beebe and higher education officials rallied with students at North Little Rock High School Monday to jumpstart the third annual “Say Go College” Week, sponsored by the Arkansas Department of Higher Education to raise awareness of the value and importance of a post-secondary education. “The main thing an education gives you – it’s not the cars, house, trips – but the freedom to choose what to do in life,” Beebe said. More than 300 high schools throughout Arkansas will take part in Say Go College Week, which features unique, fun activities that make college seem less of a mystery and more of a possibility. Each day is devoted to a particular theme, in which students, teachers and administrators will participate in several events that help students understand the significance of a college degree and the many opportunities available to help them reach their post-secondary education goals. “My mother didn’t finish high school,” he said. “She had a great work ethic but no education, so she waited tables for tips all her life. She knew how important it was for me to get an education if I wanted better options. “I grew up poor,” Beebe continued, “but I did it, and you can do it, too.” In 2008, voters approved the Arkansas Lottery Scholarship, which last year alone provided $112 million in scholarships to students based on academic achievement rather than just need. “The kindergarten through twelfth grade public education system in Arkansas has improved and scholarship opportunities have expanded,” Beebe said. “If you don’t go to college, get an education and a career, it’s not because you haven’t been given opportunities. “Fill out those applications for financial aid, enroll in college, and help build the state we love,” Beebe concluded to a round of applause. Say Go College Week will culminate Feb. 20 with College Goal Sunday, when more than 30 two-year and four-year colleges and universities in Arkansas will assist students and their families with the first critical step in receiving financial assistance for college – filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). “The ability to enjoy a good quality of life, to truly experience the American Dream, is dependent upon being able to make choices,” said ADHE Director Jim Purcell, Ed.D., “and education gives more options in life that help to open more doors.” High schools will be getting in the college spirit by hosting activities such as college-themed rallies, signing a college commitment banner, T-shirt designing contests, college myth-busting programs and a day for sporting favorite collegiate gear. For more information on “Say Go College” Week, including highlights of the week’s activities, links to all Arkansas’s colleges and universities and additional resources, visit SayGoCollege.com. |