Renton Technical College has received a $2 million Title III grant from the U.S. Department of Education to support its “Student Success and Entry Pathway” program.

During the five-year grant period, the Student Success and Entry Pathway program will help the college improve new student engagement and success by redesigning student services.

There are three main components to the grant supported project:

• Implementing a Comprehensive Developmental Advising system that supports intentional student career and academic planning and implements an early warning systems for intervention when students are struggling academically

• Simplifying registration and advising and making the financial aid process easier to understand and access

• Establishing clear, consistent assessment and placement protocols that include a precollege quarter for those who need college success, computer literacy, reading, writing or math support to create structures that get more students off to a strong start.

Redesigning services so that students receive timely front-end services (e.g., orientation, advising, financial aid rules, financial literacy, career assessment etc.) will reduce the need for later intervention. Developing online and in person classes for successful personal responsibility; financial literacy; degree, career and life planning; college success; and a system of interventions for struggling students will create flexible, just-in-time access to crucial information and needed

support for students, according to a college press release.

“RTC is very appreciative of the financial support this grant will provide. The grant will fund the strategic development of a Student Success pathway designed to help students navigate the enrollment, engagement and completion initiatives at RTC,” said Dr. Dave Pelkey, vice president of Student Services, one of the chief designers of the proposal.

Renton Technical College has the highest completion rate of any two-year college in Washington State. This Title III grant will strengthen the college’s ability to help more first year students achieve their academic and career goals. RTC is the only college in Washington state to receive this highly competitive grant during the first round of funding.