JANUARY 23, 2004  

SCHOOLS CHIEF JACK O’CONNELL URGES STUDENTS TO ATTEND

“CASH FOR COLLEGE” WORKSHOPS, APPLY FOR CAL GRANT AWARDS

Cal Grant Application Deadline is March 2

LOS ANGELES – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell is urging all graduating high school seniors and their parents to attend free Cash for College workshops where they will get hands-on help in applying for Cal Grants and other financial aid programs.

“In California, any eligible student who makes the grade is entitled to thousands of dollars in free grant aid to attend a UC, CSU, or community college,” O’Connell said. “Any student who is thinking about going to college next year and needs financial aid should attend a Cash for College workshop. ”

More than one hundred workshops are planned in communities throughout California in January and February to offer students and their parents assistance with completing applications for Cal Grants and other financial aid.

The City of Los Angeles has partnered with the education community to help gain awareness of the financial aid programs with its "L.A. Free Cash for College Project. "

“I applaud Mayor Hahn and the L.A. Free Cash for College Project partners for designating January 24 as L.A. Free Cash for College Day to help families access financial aid to pay for college, ” said O'Connell.  “L.A. Free Cash for College Day is the perfect opportunity to apply for Cal Grants so the dream of a college education is possible for anyone. Getting a college education can make a huge difference in your future. ”

According to the U.S. Census, college graduates earn a million dollars more over a lifetime than someone with a high school diploma. And, according to the Employment Policy Foundation, there are now 13 times as many jobs being created in the U.S. economy requiring at least some college education than those requiring a high-school diploma or less.

To raise awareness about the availability of Cal Grants and encourage students to apply for financial aid, O’Connell has recorded radio and television spots. Copies of the ads are available by calling the California Department of Education Communications Office.

To find the nearest Cash for College workshop, call 866/476-8787 or visit www.californiacollegegoalsunday.com.

Students and parents should bring their 2003 federal tax returns, W-2 form, or other relevant 2003 income information, and personal identification to the workshops.