Prepare for College

The PHSC College Reach-Out Program (CROP) is a state-sponsored educational program established by the legislature to increase the number of low income educationally disadvantaged students in grades 6-12 who, upon high school graduation, are admitted to and successfully complete postsecondary education. The PHSC CROP program serves students in both Hernando and Pasco counties.

CROP is a grant program funded by the Department of Education (DOE) through the Office of Postsecondary Education Coordination.

Qualifications for CROP Enrollment

The program targets first generation college students who have the desire to attend a post-secondary institution upon graduation from high school. Students must meet economic and academic qualifiers. Students also must meet a minimum of one criterion, preferably two, under both guidelines. All guidelines refer to the year immediately prior to the student’s initial year of participation in CROP.

Academic Guidelines

  • First time in college student
  • Low FSA scores
  • Low grade point average (GPA), and
  • others

Economic Guidelines

  • Received reduced or free lunch
  • Low-income
  • Participated in WAGES Program
  • Received public assistance

Activities 

Social Enrichment

Taking place in the state college setting, these elements provide students an opportunity to study on campus. Activities include:
•    Reading
•    Math
•    Vocabulary Building
•    Creative Writing
•    Computer Skills
•    FSA/SAT/ACT Preparation
•    Career Exploration
•    Daily Journal Entries

Social/Behavioral Workshop

The Social/Behavioral Workshop strengthens students’ socialization process and fosters positive self-confidence by offering:
•    Communication Skills
•    Leadership Development
•    Interviewing Skills
•    Community Service Projects
•    Scholarship Assistance
•    Application Preparation
•    Summer Youth Employment
•    Mentoring

Field Trips

Students are given opportunities to visit to various venues, developing essential contacts with:
•    Public/Private Colleges and Universities
•    Local Businesses
•    Cultural Events
•    Museums/Historic Sites

University Residential Visit

Students experience college life at University of Florida (UF) in Gainesville, Florida. CROP participants become students for four days, residing in dormitories. Students tour the campus and interact with faculty, staff and university students. 

Students will learn about:
•    Goal Setting
•    Time Management
•    Motivational Speakers
•    Digital Design
•    Computer Skills
•    Theatre and Art
•    Chemistry
•    Astronomy
•    Admissions
•    Financial Aid

Program Cost

CROP is a free service program to students who meet the criteria.

How to Enroll

  1. Complete online application
  2. Attend orientation