Tempe and Rio Salado College are teaming up to help lower-income residents who are at least 25 years old.
By the year 2030, Tempe wants 65% of residents who are 25 and older to have a post-secondary credential or degree.
Greg Pereira, vice president of student affairs with Rio Salado College, said Tempe’s Promise Program will provide financial support for eligible students to cover expenses, including transportation and childcare.
“Without education, it's really difficult to maintain a career that gets you above the poverty level and gives you the means you need to thrive within a city, “ Pereira said. “And so, as we have more and more students finishing this program and getting a degree or getting a credential, their economic mobility will go up significantly.”
Tempe is using nearly $70,000 in federal funds to support the pilot program. Applications are being accepted through Rio Salado College until April 21.
Pereira said the pilot program could support up to a hundred students.
“They'll be able to get the next job, the next level, and that'll bring in more revenue. And then, of course, individuals spend that revenue within the city of Tempe. So there will be a return on investment to local business, to the tax base, and to everyone involved,” he said.
According to a press release, Tempe Promise participants will “receive personalized support while attending Rio Salado, including academic advising, tutoring and counseling, career services assistance and more.”
Requirements:
- Is a resident of Tempe when applying who qualifies for Arizona/Maricopa County resident tuition, registration and fees at Rio Salado, and who plans to attend the college in the spring 2025 term.
- Has an income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI)
- Is a United States citizen or legal resident of the United States
- Demonstrates financial need as shown on the FAFSA application and any supporting documentation as needed by Rio Salado
- Is at least 25 years old when applying and has not earned a postsecondary degree
- Declares a certificate or degree program and is enrolled in at least one credit-bearing course
Learn more about Tempe Promise at riosalado.edu/tempepromise.
Editors note: KJZZ is licensed to the Maricopa County Community College District