Shelton announces 'Shelton Promise' agreement with Evergreen State for free tuition to qualifying graduates

Superintendent Jesse told the board the district has an agreement called Shelton Promise with Evergreen State that offers tuition assistance to qualifying Shelton graduates.

‘‘If you haven't heard, we have an agreement with Evergreen State. So for any of our graduates this year, so any of the 3 high schools, if you are, if you are graduating, here as part of the Shelton School District, this school year and next year, you can have free tuition if you're accepted into Evergreen State,’’ Superintendent Jesse said. He added the program includes a free application and application support and that the district is posting Shelton Promise information on its website.

Why it matters: Shelton Promise is a local tuition partnership intended to expand college access for recent graduates from Shelton’s three high schools. The superintendent said many students have already been accepted through the program.

What was said: Jesse described free tuition, reduced costs and application assistance and encouraged families to consult the district website (sheltonschools.org) or speak with district staff for details. ‘‘We have a lot of information on Shelton Promise right on the front page of our website, sheltonschools.org,’’ he said.

Context: Board members later referenced an Evergreen Promise family event and praised the turnout. A district staff member noted the program is available to this year’s graduates and next year’s graduates who are accepted by Evergreen State.

Next steps: District staff did not present enrollment or budget projections for Shelton Promise during the meeting; parents and students were directed to the district website and staff for application help.