Grand Rapids Community College is expanding a free summer college prep program to include a $500 stipend for students who meet attendance goals.

Bridges to College — Raider Ready is a summer program for graduating high school seniors to help boost math, reading, and writing skills before they attend GRCC or another college.

More than 100 students so far have signed up for the program, which will be offered in two sessions in both Kent and Ottawa counties. GRCC is providing all students with a laptop and Wi-Fi hotspot for use in the program and for as long as they are enrolled at GRCC.

The program will predominantly be offered on the GRCC Main Campus and the GRCC Lakeshore Campus in the Midtown Center. Some parts of the sessions will be offered online.

“It’s important for students to start college prepared so they can be successful, and Bridges to College — Raider Ready will help with those foundational skills,” said David Selmon, GRCC’s associate dean of Student Affairs.

Morning sessions

Sessions are scheduled for mornings Monday through Thursday, allowing students time for summer jobs and other responsibilities or activities. The $500 stipend is intended to offset any lost earning opportunities or cover expenses. The college also will provide breakfast and bus passes.

Students also will work with college navigators, who will help prepare them for the higher education experience.

Selmon said the program is part of GRCC’s service to the greater community, helping students who might have struggled academically during the pandemic.

The first session is planned to run from June 8 to July 6, and the second from July 12 to Aug. 12.

Students will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

The program is open to all high school graduates of the Class of 2020 or 2021 who are planning to attend college in the fall.

The health and safety of students, faculty, and staff is a top priority. GRCC will continue to work with local and state health authorities to follow wellness guidelines.

Registration and information are available at grcc.edu/bridgestocollege, email at bridgestocollege@grcc.edu, by phone at 616-234-3388, and by text at 616-404-4634.

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GRCC offers free summer program to prepare high school graduates for college