The Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) is excited to announce a new Annual Statewide Recognition Program honoring high schools that demonstrate a strong, equitable, and sustainable college-going culture.

This initiative recognizes schools that create inclusive environments where students—particularly first-generation, low-income, or historically underserved—are encouraged and supported to pursue education beyond high school.

How the Program Works

A review committee will evaluate participating schools using a holistic, weighted scoring rubric that emphasizes the most impactful indicators of a college-going culture. This ensures a fair, consistent, and transparent selection process statewide.

Evaluation includes both quantitative and qualitative indicators, such as:

• College and career readiness programming
• FAFSA/WASFA completion and financial aid literacy
• Supports for first-generation and low-income students
• Family engagement and community partnerships
• Postsecondary transition tracking

WSAC will announce selected schools later this year.

How to Participate

Schools must take two simple steps to participate:

1. Confirm Participation. Schools must confirm their intent to participate by completing the sign-up form by Friday, May 15.  
2. Submit School Data. Participating schools will complete a Data Submission Form that gathers the information needed for evaluation.

WSAC will email the form to the primary contact listed on the sign-up form, along with any additional staff identified during sign-up.

Schools may collaborate internally, but only one submission per school is required.

Data submission forms are due Friday, May 29.

Follow-Up Questions

Who is eligible to participate? Any Washington high school.

Is participation required or optional? Participation is completely optional but highly encouraged.

Is there a cost to participate? No.

Where can schools learn more and sign up? Access the sign-up form here. Additional guidance will be shared directly with schools. For further questions, please contact Isaac Rodriguez at isaac.rodriguez@wsac.wa.gov.

WSAC looks forward to recognizing and amplifying the work of schools leading the way in expanding access to college and career training pathways. Thank you for building brighter futures for students across Washington.

Sign-up form