Genesee Opportunity Stipend helps students pursue college and career opportunities after high school

FLINT, Michigan — For Genesee County students preparing for life after high school, financial barriers can make it hard to pursue college, career training, or professional certifications. But a local initiative is helping graduates take their next steps without bearing the full financial burden.

The Genesee Opportunity (GO) Stipend, administered through the Genesee Intermediate School District (GISD), provides eligible graduates with financial assistance to pursue postsecondary education, career training, apprenticeships, and certification programs.

Since its inception, approximately 12,000 Genesee County students have benefited from the program, according to Hannah Johnson, GISD’s career preparation and postsecondary coordinator and GO coordinator.

“The GO program is designed to invest in the future of Genesee County by investing in its students,” Johnson said.

Established following a voter-approved millage in 2016, the program supports the county’s commitment to lifelong education, workforce training and community enrichment. Its goal is to help students pursue educational and professional opportunities shortly after graduation, when continuing their education or training can improve their likelihood of completion.

Expanding opportunities beyond college

Unlike traditional scholarships focused exclusively on college tuition, the GO Stipend offers flexibility for students pursuing different career pathways.

Recipients have used their funding to buy tools for apprenticeships, complete professional certification programs, and take part in training opportunities, including programs outside Michigan.

“This flexibility allows students to use the stipend in ways that best support their individual career paths,” Johnson said.

For one Genesee County graduate, the stipend provided an opportunity to explore a career in health care. Although interested in the field, the student wasn’t sure which profession to pursue.

Using her GO Stipend, she enrolled in a certified nursing assistant (CNA) course at no personal cost, allowing her to gain practical experience and explore her interests before committing to a longer-term educational program.

“For students who are undecided about their next steps after high school, opportunities like this can make a meaningful difference by allowing them to explore different career pathways before committing to a longer-term educational program,” Johnson said.

Beyond helping students explore potential careers, the program also addresses financial barriers associated with tuition, certifications, equipment, and specialized training.

“The GO Stipend helps ease some of that financial burden, making postsecondary opportunities more accessible and attainable,” Johnson said.

Increasing awareness and participation

To qualify, applicants must graduate from a Genesee County high school or a registered home school program, or earn a GED, while meeting the program’s residency or property-tax requirements. Eligible graduates must use their stipend within one year of high school graduation.

GISD is working to increase participation by visiting schools throughout the county, educating students about the program and offering application assistance.

Johnson emphasized that students and families should not overlook the financial support available to them.

“It is important that all Genesee County seniors understand that this is FREE money guaranteed just by submitting the application and meeting the requirements,” she said.

As the program continues to expand its outreach, GISD hopes more students will recognize that pursuing their goals doesn’t require having every detail of their future planned.

“You do not need to have your entire future figured out to get started,” Johnson said. “The GO Stipend can help make exploring your options and pursuing your goals more affordable.”

Students and families can learn more about eligibility and the application process at www.geneseego.org.