Welcome to the Gateway to College homepage!
What is Gateway to College?
The Gateway to College program is for 16-20 year olds who have either dropped out of high school or on the verge of dropping out and are interested in returning to school and completing their high school diploma. Students simultaneously accumulate high school and college credits, earning their high school diploma while progressing toward a certificate, diploma, or associate’s degree.
Savannah Technical College has initiated two charter schools for Gateway participants— Savannah Gateway Academy and Effingham Gateway Academy—to serve our students. Through these academies, students will take all of their classes on the Savannah Technical College campus.
Students selected to participate in the Gateway to College Academy will have no out of pocket expenses for their tuition, fees, or books while participating in the program.
The Gateway to College staff is committed to providing the supports necessary for educational success. In addition to academic and financial assistance, students will have an Academic Coach dedicated to their success. The Academic Coach guides students through the college experience as an academic advisor, instructor and a mentor. They will assist students with different facets of the college experience—everything from teaching students about careers and time management to providing referrals to community resources.
What Kind of Student is A Good Candidate for GtC?
To be successful in the Gateway to College program, students should:
- Be between 16 to 20 years old
- Have left high school before graduation or be at risk of dropping out (You cannot be enrolled in another high school program once you enter our program.)
- Be behind in high school credits for your age and grade
- Be able to read at the 8th grade reading level. You should also be able to perform well on additional Reading, Math, Grammar, and Writing assessments.
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Live in either the Savannah-Chatham or Effingham school district
Students who have an IEP click
here.
What is Expected of Gateway to College Academy students?
Students admitted into Gateway to College must complete their high school graduation requirements by age 21.
Therefore, it is very important that when students inquire about the program that they are able to give the Gateway staff accurate information regarding the number of high school credits they have completed thus far. By comparing the student's age and the number of high school credits earned thus far, staff can give an approximate date of completion.
To participate in this program, students must be full-time students, meaning they will be in class about 20 hours a week and do three to four hours of homework per day. Students are expected to have 100% attendance in each of their classes. Because the program requires a strong commitment, it is recommended that students work fewer than 25 hours a week.
The program takes time –
most students can earn their high school diploma in two to three years, but they often earn more than 70 college credits too!
What is the Process for Admission to Gateway to College?
Gateway to College gives students who have been unsuccessful in a traditional high school setting another option for achieving academic success. While there are many benefits to participating in this program, it is not suitable for all students. Gateway to College requires a high level of committment from students and this expectation is present even in the application process.
For those students interested in Gateway to College, you may download your application packet here. Once you have completed the application packet and returned it to our office, you need to call or email our office with the information session date you have selected.
You must reserve your seat at an information session. No walk-ins are allowed. Your completed application must be submitted to our office
at least two business days prior to the date of the information session. You are also strongly encouraged to bring a parent, guardian, or other educational supporter with you to the information session.
Questions?
Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions. If you don't see your question listed there, feel free to call or email us.
Want to practice your Reading, Writing, and Math? Click
here.
Savannah Gateway Academy accepting students for Fall Quarter 2008
Effingham Gateway Academy accepting students for Winter Quarter 2009
Gateway to College
Savannah Technical College
5717 White Bluff Road
Savannah, GA 31405
912. 443.5777 Phone
912. 443.5499 Fax
