Senior year is full of important decisions related to college, like where they should attend or how much tuition costs. Luckily for Sherman High School and Jefferson Learning Center seniors, those two questions can be a little easier to answer, thanks to the Texoma Promise.

The Texoma Promise is a partnership between area school districts, Grayson College and ten other universities, like University of North Texas and Texas Tech University, meant to expand access to higher education. For many students, it offers “last dollar” scholarships, which covers all tuition costs, if they meet certain income requirements.

“Free tuition opportunities afford students the opportunity to attend college at a dramatically reduced cost,” said Jennifer Pruiett, college and career coordinator at SHS. “Attending college gives students the opportunity to further their education and increase their lifelong earning potential.”

It’s especially important for Sherman ISD students, where nearly 80% of families are economically disadvantaged. The cost of tuition can be a barrier to many, but the Texoma Promise opens the door to higher education for more students.

“It’s been a great opportunity to provide this,” said Tiffany Francis, director of enrollment at Grayson College. She also manages the Texoma Promise. “We’re in an area with a lot of first-generation college students and low-income students who may think college isn’t a possibility.”

Taking the pledge of the Texoma Promise does not commit the students to Grayson College or any university in the partnership, and even if a student does not meet the income requirement at their chosen institution, the program provides support services like success coaching and career services.

SHS senior Brody Fritchman plans to attend UNT to study music. He said the process to sign up was quick and simple, and he encouraged future students to sign up as well.

“It’s easy, and it’s free money,” Fritchman said. “It’s nice not having to worry about paying a lot while going to college.”

High school seniors should complete the pledge by Feb. 9, 2024. For more information, please visit www.texomapromise.org.