College Becomes Possible for Local Students in Need

College Bound Opportunities Welcomes 25 New Scholars Into Program

On Sunday, twenty-five high school juniors from Highland Park, Deerfield, and Lake Forest high schools and their families came together at the Patty Turner Center to celebrate a major step towards earning a college degree. "You represent the ninth class of students taken into the College Bound Opportunities' program," said Bonnie Shlensky, Board President of College Bound Opportunities (CBO). "Twenty five of our scholars have already graduated from college, and, like them, you will be going to college, and you will graduate," Shlensky added. CBO mentors high achieving but under resourced students, and gives them the tools to get into college and graduate.

Founded in 2006, CBO provides a comprehensive set of programs, including ACT Prep classes, laptops, career workshops, and financial assistance for these scholars. But most importantly, it provides a one-to-one mentor relationship with a community volunteer.  Most of the students in the program are the first in their families to go to college, so the need for a mentor is critical to their success. The students and their families met their volunteer mentors for the first time on Sunday. Each mentor will be working with their student for the next six years helping them navigate the college application process and adapt to college life. "Looking out at this group of mentors who will devote six years to these students is really incredible," said Dr. George Fornero, Superintendant of District 113. "Because of you, CBO has a 97% college completion rate ... that's the envy of anywhere in this nation," Dr. Fornero added.

In its first year, the organization accepted four students. This newest class brings the total number of scholars in the program to 147. Congressman Brad Schneider (10th District) came out to celebrate this landmark occasion with CBO and these students. "To achieve this type of expansion is a testament to this organization," Congressman Schneider said. But even more students need help in the community. Unfortunately, CBO still must turn away more than 50% of qualified applicants due to funding constraints. Due to this competitive application process, being accepted into the program represents an important accomplishment for these students. Addressing the students again, Congressman Schneider stated, "Thank you, congratulations, and I look forward to watching all of your great success."

About College Bound Opportunities:

College Bound Opportunities (CBO) is a not-for-profit organization centered in the ten communities within Deerfield and Highland Park High School District 113 and Lake Forest Community High School District 115. CBO identifies high-achieving but under resourced young people who, without support, would likely forgo post-secondary education and assists them in applying to and completing college. CBO goals are achieved through a program of one-to-one mentoring between volunteers and scholars. Additional aid provided by CBO includes tutoring, training services, laptop computers, and up to $16,000 in financial support. Learn more at http://cbo4success.org.