Longview ISD has removed a barrier for students dreaming of an education at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) by paying all application fees to more than 50 schools.
The district partnered with EDU Incorporated, which runs a platform that allows students to apply to many HBCUs simultaneously. Longview ISD pays the $25 application fee for each student.
Ashtyn McCray, a senior at Longview High School who is looking at Wiley University in Marshall, said the service opens new opportunities.
“I feel like this is going to be a great way for students to get into the colleges they desire or colleges they might not have even known about,” McCray said.
The district reached out to EDU Incorporated about two months ago. Robert Mason, founder of EDU Incorporated, said the program is designed for students of all races.
“It’s a tremendous opportunity for their students, and again I definitely think the district should be commended for their efforts,” Mason said.
Felicia Carnes, college and career readiness manager for grades 9-12 at Longview ISD, said the service exposes students to unfamiliar schools.
“There’s a world of wonderful schools out there that they may not have been familiar with or exposed to,” Carnes said.
Cassidy Carwin, who is in the nursing program at Longview ISD, knew nothing about HBCUs this morning but is now exploring options.
“Nursing school can be really expensive, so filling out this scholarship can really get that pressure off my chest,” Carwin said.
Miles Polk, a senior at Longview High School, emphasized the importance of research in college decisions.
“If you want to make a decision on something that’s important in your life, you need to research and get behind the facts of what you think is best for you,” Polk said.
Longview ISD said it will offer the service over the next two years. Only juniors and seniors are eligible.
