CPE offering grants for summer bridge programs to help students prepare for college

February 01, 2023

The Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education is offering grants of up to $50,000 for summer bridge programs that prepare students for college and help them return for a second year.

All of Kentucky's public colleges and universities, along with institutions in the Association of Independent Kentucky Colleges and Universities, are eligible to apply. Campuses can use the money to create new programs or expand existing efforts currently supported across the state. The deadline for proposals is 4:30 p.m. ET, Feb. 17.

CPE President Aaron Thompson said bridge programs are more important now than ever since students who attended high school in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to enter college without the benefit of a typical high school experience.

“The transition from high school to college is a crucial point in any student’s schooling, and the support they receive during that time can set them on a path to success,” said Thompson. “The pandemic has only amplified the need for supports like summer bridge programs for this COVID-impacted generation of students.”

Funding is available from CPE through the American Rescue Plan Act funds.

These programs will be offered in the period between high school and college. They typically last from one to six weeks and use a range of strategies to promote early college success. Strategies include in-depth orientation to college life, social and emotional resources, academic or career advising, training in skills necessary for college success, and accelerated coursework or similar supports.

The grants are part of CPE’s larger efforts to raise the percentage of adults with a postsecondary degree or credential to 60% by the year 2030.

CPE staff will host a one-hour virtual session on Friday, Feb. 3 at 12:00 p.m. ET to address any questions campus staff may have about submitting a proposal. Registration is available here. The session will be recorded and archived, and an FAQ document will be posted following the session.

For more information about the grants and proposal process visit: cpe.ky.gov/news/announcements.html.