Postsecondary Readiness and Enrollment on the Peninsula
Supporting Student Transitions Across the Olympic Peninsula
The Postsecondary Readiness and Enrollment on the Peninsula (PREP) partnership is a multi-year regional initiative designed to support students in Clallam, Jefferson, Mason, and Kitsap counties as they transition from high school into postsecondary education and career training. This work is made possible through a Horizons Regional Grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, awarded to our region in partnership with West Sound STEM Network, College Success Foundation (CSF), and other community, education, and workforce organizations.
​
PREP brings together a wide-ranging group of partners, including 15 local school districts and Tribal schools, Peninsula College, Western Washington University, workforce boards, and community-based organizations. Together, we are committed to improving access to postsecondary pathways—such as college, apprenticeships, and career certification programs—especially for students in rural and underserved communities.
West Sound STEM Network, a nonprofit focused on expanding STEM education and career opportunities, manages the partnership and coordinates efforts across the region.
​
What PREP Does
PREP is focused on expanding and aligning programs that are proven to help students take the next step after high school—whether that’s entering college, beginning a training program, or starting an apprenticeship. Over three years, the partnership will:
​
-
Expand high-quality advising and mentoring, with a focus on students in rural and Tribal schools.
-
Increase financial aid application completion through coordinated outreach and support for students and families.
-
Strengthen support services for the transition from high school to college or training programs.
Provide access to education and training in high-demand career fields, connecting students to meaningful, local job opportunities.
Opening doors to college and careers for every student on the Peninsula
Reaching Students Where They Are
Who PREP Serves
PREP supports more than 15,000 high school students across the four-county region. In the first half-year of implementation alone, over 1,100 students have already received individualized advising and guidance to help them prepare for life after high school.
By combining the expertise and resources of schools, colleges, community groups, and workforce partners, PREP aims to ensure that every student—regardless of background or location—has the support they need to succeed in their next chapter.
What to Expect
PREP programming will expand over the coming months, with new opportunities and supports launching in schools and communities through the three years of the grant. In addition to funding, PREP partners also receive technical assistance and training to adopt high-impact strategies that make a real difference for students.
​
“[When] students find out that, not only is college a possibility for them, but that they can afford it as well - their faces light up when they hear about the many scholarships and grants available and there is a palpable sense of optimism that fills the room.”
“A student we worked with had a 2.97 GPA and was unaware of the College Bound Scholarship. He didn’t realize that raising his GPA just slightly would guarantee admission to almost every school in the state. Motivated by this opportunity, he began envisioning life on a campus, starting applications, and scheduling a college visit.”
“Hosting these students at Peninsula College is just the beginning. With the support of the Horizons Regional Grant, we’re creating customized, engaging experiences that help students imagine—and plan for—a successful future.”
—Suzy Ames, Ed.D., on hosting students for college visits, a part of creating a college-going culture for PREP students
Peninsula College President