School board approves George Mason partnership to support first‑generation students
Summary
The board approved a contract with George Mason University to continue the Early Identification Program (EIP), a multi‑year partnership providing mentoring, academic support and college guidance for middle and high school students identified as first‑generation college applicants.
The Fairfax County School Board on June 26 approved an intergovernmental contract to continue the Early Identification Program (EIP) with George Mason University, a program that provides academic support, mentoring and college‑admissions assistance to students who would be first in their families to attend college.
Board member Dr. Anderson moved approval and said the program is “a tremendous opportunity for our first‑generation students.” During discussion, FCPS staff described the program’s scope and outcomes: students who complete EIP receive sustained support from middle school through high school and are offered guaranteed admission to George Mason if program requirements are met. Staff said approximately 98 percent of students who complete the program graduate from college successfully.
Superintendent’s staff and board members urged better outreach to increase awareness of the program and said the optimal recruitment window is in seventh grade so students can apply and be admitted in eighth grade for supports beginning in ninth grade. The board approved the contract and authorized the division superintendent or the director of the Office of Procurement Services to execute and administer it on behalf of the board.
The motion passed unanimously among board members present.
