The U.S. Department of Education has awarded Seminole State College’s Talent Search-West program a $1.25 million grant to continue providing college preparation and academic support services to area middle and high school students.

Talent Search-West will receive $250,000 annually for five years. The program will serve 500 students at seven schools: Earlsboro, Macomb, Maud, McLoud, Pleasant Grove, Shawnee and Tecumseh.

The program serves students in grades 6-12, providing resources and guidance designed to help participants remain in school, graduate from high school and pursue postsecondary education.

“This grant represents an important investment in the students and communities we serve,” SSC Vice President for Finance, Grants and Enrollment Melanie Rinehart said. “Talent Search helps students recognize that higher education is within their reach and provides them with the support and resources to take the next step. We are grateful for the opportunity to continue this work with our partner schools for another five years.”

The grant establishes goals for student persistence, high school graduation, completion of rigorous secondary coursework, college enrollment and postsecondary completion. Among its objectives, Talent Search-West aims to ensure that a large majority of participating students advance to the next grade level and graduate from high school on time while encouraging participants to enroll in and complete a postsecondary program.

Talent Search-West is led by Director Karan O’Dor.

Talent Search is part of TRIO, a group of educational opportunity programs funded by the U.S. Department of Education. The program provides participating students with guidance and resources to prepare for college and pursue their educational goals.

Through Talent Search, participating students receive academic and college preparation support, including workshops, tutoring, campus visits and assistance with the college admissions and financial aid processes.