CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) – Principals, counselors and staff members from 45 high schools across the Mountain State were recognized this October for their efforts to help students prepare for higher education.

The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and the Council for Community and Technical Education present the “Champion of College Access and Success” each year to schools who help students prepare for post-secondary education through three college-planning milestone events over the course of the school year. These include a College Application and Exploration Week, a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Completion Campaign and a College Decision Day initiative.

“The Champion for College Access and Success award is a chance to recognize schools and administrators that go above and beyond to help students receive all the necessary tools and information to be successful after high school,” said Dr. Sarah Armstrong Tucker, WV Chancellor for Higher Education. “As the professional landscape in West Virginia and across the nation changes, it is vital that students have some form of post-secondary education or training. The schools recognized today are exemplary in their efforts to create a college-going culture.”

The schools that are receiving the Champion recognition include:

The ceremony took place during this year’s West Virginia Board of Governors Summit with representatives from higher education institutions across the state along with community and business leaders, according to the WVHEPC. Officials say attendees at the summit had the opportunity to discuss the challenges that face post-secondary attainment and brainstorm solutions to help increase college access and readiness for West Virginia students.