Celebrating Oregon Excellence in College Access
Big news from Klamath Falls! Mazama High School just won a major national award. ACT’s American College Application Campaign named Mazama an ACAC School of Excellence. Out of thousands of high schools across the country, only 26 earned this special honor. Mazama is the only school selected in Oregon!
During College Application Week, Mazama’s seniors filled out applications during the school day. This national award recognizes Mazama for making sure every student gets the support they need to apply.
How Mazama Gives Every Senior a Fair Shot at Success
Applying to college can feel confusing when you do it alone at home. Mazama High School solved this problem. They brought the whole application process into the classroom.
During their event, seniors get:
- Free computer access during class time
- Fee waivers so applying costs zero dollars
- Help on the spot from teachers, counselors, and school leaders
"We host a college application completion event at Mazama because access and opportunity matter," says Sergio Cisneros, Vice Principal at Mazama High School. "Not all students have the same starting point."
By working together in class, applying to college becomes a shared celebration instead of a stressful task.
What "College" Means at Mazama and Across Oregon
When Mazama High School helps seniors apply to college, they are not just talking about four-year universities.
At Oregon Goes To College, we know education and training beyond high school is important. A degree or credential gives people more opportunities and a better life. But we keep our definition of "college" simple: College is any type of formal, credentialed education or training after high school.
During Mazama's event, seniors applied for all kinds of postsecondary paths, including:
- Apprenticeships (learning a skilled trade while getting paid)
- Career and trade schools
- Community colleges
- Four-year universities
As Vice Principal Cisneros points out, applying is not about picking one path forever. It is about keeping doors open so you can choose the future you want.
3 Simple Tips for Oregon High Schools
Mazama’s success shows how high schools across rural, suburban, and urban Oregon can help every senior succeed. Here are three simple tips from Mazama's team:
- Host events during the school day: Give every senior dedicated time and technology so no one gets left out.
- Involve the whole staff: Get teachers and administrators working alongside counselors. Students feel supported by everyone.
- Celebrate every application: Ring a bell, hand out stickers, or share high-fives when a student submits an application!
Oregon Goes To College Is Your Go-To Resource
All Oregonians should have the opportunity to access and succeed in education and training beyond high school. Oregon Goes To College is the first and best place to learn about getting ready for college:
- For Students and Families: Explore our resources on how to Prepare, Explore, Apply, Pay and Go to college.
- For Educators: Visit our Educator Resource Center to grab free classroom activities, templates. Learn how your school can host successful events with our toolkits!
Congratulations to the students, teachers, and leaders at Mazama High School for setting a powerful example for all of Oregon!