By By Lydia Grimes
news reporter
Current economic conditions are making it more important than ever to find ways to finance a college education. With a multitude of scholarships, student loans and other forms of financial aid available to those entering college, the paperwork involved can be confusing.
An Alabama Department of Education grant awarded to Jefferson Davis Community College will give the local college an opportunity to educate high school counselors and students about the various forms of financial aid available.
ADE’s career and technical education department awarded the $20,000 grant.
JDCC President Dr. Susan McBride said the grant will help college faculty and staff be more available to students in the college service area.
Vanessa Kyles, financial aid director at JDCC, said the grant will provide more training to high school counselors and will make training available to the college workers.
The grant, written by Dr. Beth Billy, will help eliminate the problem of students not being aware of what is available to them, Martin said. Funding will be used to conduct financial seminars at area schools, provide assistance for students and families completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, and to host a professional developmental workshop on the financial aid application process for area schools.
For information on financial assistance through Jefferson Davis Community College, contact the financial aid department at 867-4832.