New CCV program offers cash stipends to students

VERMONT - Vermont high school seniors, facing continued uncertainty amid the COVID-19 pandemic, will have access to additional support at the Community College of Vermont next year. Thanks to a generous award from the J. Warren and Lois McClure Foundation, current CCV Early College students who matriculate at the college and enroll in two or more courses in summer or fall 2022 will receive a stipend to cover the cost of one class or the equivalent amount to be used toward other costs associated with college. Early College is a state-sponsored program that allows Vermont students to spend their senior year of high school enrolled as full-time college students.  
The grant aims to support CCV’s Early College cohort based on evidence that first-time college students who enroll in 12 credits are more likely to return for a second year and to earn a credential. Students who earn an associate degree by the end of 2023 will receive an additional $500.
The grant builds on funding awarded by the Vermont Community Foundation, of which the McClure Foundation is a supporting organization. This year, VCF is providing stipends and enhanced advising through its COVID-19 Response Fund for CCV Early College students pursuing one of three workforce-ready certificates: cybersecurity fundamentals, graphic design, and IT service desk specialist.