TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – Flowing Wells High guarantees every senior has a plan after graduation, with more than 70% of the 2025 graduating class continuing their education.
The school’s “100% Initiative,” which was launched three years ago, comes as Arizona struggles with college enrollment rates.
Just 48% of Arizona high schoolers enroll in college or trade programs, compared to 62% nationwide, according to Education Forward Arizona and the Education Data Initiative.
At Flowing Wells High, 23% more students continue their education compared to the state average.
Counselors guide students through post-graduation planning
Senior Serenity Moreno said the transition felt overwhelming at first.
“Oh my God, this entire year I’m going to have to do applications, I’m going to have to do FAFSA,” Moreno said. “That pressure definitely makes it feel like holy shoot, I’m actually leaving. I can’t come back next year.”
College and Career Counselor Stacey Grijalva said the initiative addresses a critical need at the Title I school.
“Worst case scenario is that these kids graduate and don’t have a plan and do nothing,” Grijalva said. “This is a Title I school, and it can lead to being stuck in a cycle that can be difficult to break.”
The program prepares students for various paths after graduation, including college, jobs, military service, trade school, or apprenticeships.
Students’ credit counseling office for success
Senior Kamal Mohd said the counseling support helped him stay focused.
“It really helped me focus myself and motivate myself to do my applications,” Mohd said.
Mohd is heading to Northwestern University, while classmate Quinn Van will attend Stanford. Both plan to major in engineering.
“I think I made the right decision,” Van said. “They led me in the right direction.”
Moreno, who initially felt uncertain about her future, also found direction through the counseling process. She is applying to the TEP apprenticeship program.
Education Forward Arizona said the state could gain billions if more high schoolers continue their education.
You can find more college resources and scholarship opportunities at the KOLD Education Solutions page.
Isabela Lisco is a Report for America corpsmember covering education solutions for 13 News. Her position is made possible through funding from Report for America and the Arizona Local News Foundation’s Arizona Community Collaborative Fund.
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