FAME assists students to plan next steps after high school

By Lanet Hane

Preparing for the next steps after high school, whether that be a four-year university, two-year college, or a shorter certification program, is overwhelming for many students and their families. Windham High School is consistently seeking to help families and students feel more confident about the process and ready for the future.

Jessica Whittier

This is where FAME comes into the picture. Finance Authority of Maine is an organization helping to create good paying jobs for Maine residents, and seeking to close the gap between the education level of the youngest working generation and the job openings in our state.

To help with this, Jessica Whittier attends several area high schools to speak directly with students about how to set themselves up for financial success. Ms. Whittier spoke to Senior Personal Finance classes as well as JMG students, providing valuable information on how to uncover the likely cost for various educational options, how to obtain financial aid, what to consider financially when choosing from options, and much more.

“Jess was an amazing presenter,” says Mr. Champion, Personal Finance teacher. “The seniors were engaged and left well informed about how to proceed with paying for college.”

Ms. Whittier’s visit is just one piece of Windham High School’s overall strategy to assist students in successfully transitioning from high school to their next step. Other supports include school-sponsored college and business visits, weekly workshops, the Senior Capstone project, a College and Career Specialist, and a Transitions Specialist.