Mason County students participate in Decision Day.

Mason County students participate in Decision Day.

Earlier this month schools in Mason County participated in college Decision Day, an initiative of the Michigan College Access Network where students decided on their plans after graduating from high school.

During the first two weeks of May the students were asked to fill out a form declaring their intentions. According to the Michigan College Access website, Decision Day is “inspired by the (National College Athletic Association’s) National Signing Day to reinforce that excellence in the classroom should be given as much pomp and circumstance as excellence as an athlete. NCAA’s National Signing Day is when high school seniors sign a letter of intent to play sports at a specific college.”

Students’ plans range from enrolling in a college or technical training program, registering for the military, to entering the workforce right away.  With the proper credentials, students are able to access employment opportunities not only here in the west Michigan but anywhere they want to live and work.  

“From manufacturing, agriculture, to the booming tourism industry, west Michigan has no shortage of employment opportunities,” College Access Network Coordinator for Mason County Nick Palmer said.

With the recent introduction of the Mason County Promise, students will have access to a tuition free two-year degree, certificate, or other approved credential at West Shore Community College. “This gives students the opportunity to gain post-secondary credentials without the financial burden.” Palmer said.

The Michigan College Access Network is an organization with a goal of increasing the percentage of Michigan residents with degrees or post-secondary credentials to 60% by the year 2025. For more information, go to micollegeaccess.org