FAFSA Workshop Well Attended; Financial Aid, Promise Assistance Continues
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on October 04, 2018 via Connect-Bridgeport.com
Held Oct. 1, Bridgeport High School's Annual Financial Aid Workshop was a packed house. Filling the school library were BHS students 
and parents, as well as parents of home schooled students and those from other high schools. A total of 127 individuals took advantage of the opportunity.
The workshop was set up by BHS junior/senior counselor Jane Byrd, who works with student throughout the school year, keeping them apprised of scholarship opportunities, deadlines and other important information to make the transition into college.
Making a presentation at the workshop was Brian Weingart, senior director of financial aid, West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and director of the Promise Scholarship. He explained state financial aid forms, Promise Scholarship criteria, West Virginia Higher Education Grant Program, WV Smart 529 Plans and 
Federal Financial Aid, among other
Federal Financial Aid, among other
financial aid options.
"Parents were appreciative," Byrd said. "They liked getting the handout to take home and review and they thought Brian was very knowledgeable."
Admission and financial representatives from Fairmont State University, Davis & Elkins College, West Virginia Wesleyan College and West Virginia University presented financial aid opportunities specific to their schools.
FAFSA is now available and submission is due March 1 for Promise Scholarship eligibility.
The Financial Aid Workshop was part of a series of events to equip seniors and their parents with important information.
On Sept. 26, BHS juniors and seniors heard from representatives of various colleges and universities, getting tips on finding the right college fit.
Chris Randolph of Davis & Elkins College was among speakers.
"He spoke with juniors and seniors on some points to look for when selecting a college," Byrd said.
Thursday, another FAFSA workshop will take place at the Gaston Caperton Center, 500 West Main Street, Clarksburg. From 5-7 p.m., free assistance and professional support will be provided.
