An area high school has been recognized for their efforts making students aware of assistance available for higher education.

Reeds Spring High School was named the Most Improved School in the state for the number of students who completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). RSHS improved by 14% from the previous year. This recognition comes from the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development. 

“The FAFSA can be an overwhelming process for parents and students alike,” said RSHS Principal Dr. Isaac Sooter. “We want to clear the path for students to attend college by removing obstacles.”

Dr. Sooter credits the school’s Student Success Advisor, Paige Cyrus-Ham, who works with every senior to map out a plan after graduation. She helps students and their families understand the entire college process, from applications, FAFSA, scholarships, affordability, housing, and enrollment.

“She (Cyrus-Ham) leads the effort by providing information and one-on-one support to students and their families,” Sooter said. “Our counseling department supports our students and families in numerous ways and by providing step-by-step instructions and time available we have been able to significantly increase our FAFSA completion rate and add one more layer of needed support.”

Reeds Spring High School held several FAFSA Frenzy events, encouraging families to come in and receive assistance filling out the forms.

“It allows me to develop positive relationships with students and parents, and it is exciting to see our students discover opportunities that they didn't think were available to them before,” said RSHS Student Success Advisor Paige Cyrus-Ham. 

Students can receive up to $6,895 in free grant money to attend college each year by completing the FAFSA, and many families have been surprised at how affordable college can be. 

“I was really excited to see the progress this senior class made with their postsecondary plans this year,” Cyrus-Ham said. “FAFSA completion is one of the main indicators for student success in their journey to college, and it is one of my top priorities as the Student Success Advisor.”

(Press Release from Reeds Spring School District)