For roughly 18 years, parents of Bridgeport High School seniors have packed lunches, helped with homework, cleaned uniforms and cheered their children on.  One of the scariest parts of being a parent is when it comes to sending that same child out into the “real” world of college and being totally overwhelmed with the process. On December 15, Bridgeport High School will be helping to take some of the sting out of the process as it presents a financial aid workshop for seniors and parents.

 

“We will be hosting the event, but the expert on site will be Brian Weingart, Senior Director of Financial Aid for the state of West Virginia,” BHS Counselor Jane Byrd said.

 

Weingart will show families what is involved with the financial aid process, how to apply, who is eligible, and will review the costs of college overall.  He will differentiate among the different categories of financial aid, including the Promise Scholarship, grants and the FAFSA.

 

“One of the most important resources for parents is the FAFSA,” said Byrd. The form determines eligibility and allows the state to allocate financial aid according to need. 

 

“Searching for scholarships can also be overwhelming,” added Byrd. “The workshop will help alleviate some of the stress and allow parents to get a head start on the process so they don’t miss important deadlines coming up in 2015.”

 

The Financial Aid Workshop is free of charge and open to all juniors, seniors and parents. It will take place in the BHS Library from 6 to 8 p.m.