Family Engagement & College Readiness

Through the College Access program component, BSP increases students’ engagement at school and throughout their educational journeys, promotes positive academic behaviors, increases family connection to critical school-based information, and offers postsecondary access support for students and families.

Increasing parents’ knowledge centered on college & career readiness, the college application process, and college success, and fostering parent leadership in their children's schools helps create an environment of academic success for the families that BSP serves.

Education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and creating brighter futures.

At Building Skills Partnership, we believe that empowering families through education builds stronger communities. That’s why our Family Engagement and College Readiness Program (FECR) is at the heart of our Community Advancement work.

Our Two-Generational Approach

FECR uses an innovative two-generational model that engages both working parents and K-12 students. By improving education access and strengthening the bond between families and schools, FECR creates an environment of support, wellness, and academic success.

• Parents gain tools to navigate the education system, advocate for their children’s success, and build confidence as leaders in their school communities.

• Students engage in hands-on experiences that spark curiosity in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM), helping them discover their passions early on.

How We Support Families

Through workshops, trainings, and university visits, FECR helps families build clear pathways to higher education and economic mobility.

For Parents:

• Learn how to communicate with educators and access critical resources.

• Gain knowledge about college applications, scholarships, and financial aid.

• Build leadership skills to advocate for their children’s academic success.

For Students:

• Explore hands-on STEAM activities that open doors to new opportunities.

• Get guidance on applying for college, scholarships, and financial aid.

• Learn to manage student loans and make informed financial decisions for life beyond high school.

Scholarships: Breaking Barriers to Higher Education

BSP Scholarships provide financial support to unionized, low-income property service worker parents and their K-12 students. With rising tuition costs and limited public funding, scholarships are more critical than ever in helping families achieve higher education goals.

• Reduce financial barriers for workers and their families.

• Encourage persistence in completing higher education.

• Support first-generation students in pursuing their college dreams.

Why FECR Matters

Many workers dream of their children attending college—or pursuing higher education themselves. But low wages and high tuition often stand in the way. FECR bridges that gap by:

• Expanding access to education.

• Promoting leadership and advocacy among parents.

• Creating opportunities for long-term career advancement.

With your support, BSP empowers families to achieve academic success, improve their quality of life, and uplift entire communities.

Overview

Five Program Purposes: 

• Empowers parents to advocate for their children's education and promotes positive learning environments

• Supports parents with children engaging in distance learning through case management, digital literacy, resources, and educational techniques extended in the home environment

• Supports college-aged children in applying for and/or transferring to college, scholarships and financial aid

• Guides students to achieve financial independence by understanding student loans, financial aid opportunities and other options available to finance higher education

• Promotes the mental and physical well-being of students while coping with academic stress

To learn more about the program, contact your local BSP representative.