Representatives from TRIO Talent Search presented an overview of the federally funded collegeaccess program at recent school board meetings in Rockbridge County and Buena Vista, highlighting services for first-generation and income-eligible students in grades 6–12.
Talent Search serves students across Alleghany, Bath and Rockbridge counties, as well as Buena Vista, with a federally mandated requirement that at least two-thirds of participants be both first-generation college prospects and income eligible. The program provides academic advising, online tutoring, college visits, financial aid workshops, and life-skills support designed to promote high school graduation and postsecondary enrollment.
During the Rockbridge County School Board presentation, program staff described services ranging from online tutoring and in-school workshops to campus visits at community colleges and four-year universities. Advisers also assist students and families with financial aid applications and college planning, beginning as early as middle school.
In Buena Vista, school officials noted that Talent Search currently serves students at Alleghany High School, Bath County High School, Rockbridge County High School, Covington Middle School, and Maury River Middle School.
Later in the meeting, the Buena Vista School Board approved a new five-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) with TRIO Talent Search, extending the program’s services to city students through 2030. Board members described the program as successful and emphasized its role in supporting students’ post-graduation plans.
Although Lexington City Schools is not listed as a participating division in the program’s regional fact sheets, Lylburn Downing Middle School does partner with Talent Search. In a written statement, school counselor Sarah Leonard said LDMS actively promotes the program and encourages eligible students to participate.
“Currently, several of our students are enrolled and actively engaged,” Leonard said. “Talent Search is a valuable resource that provides meaningful support for students.”
TRIO Talent Search was founded in 1965 and is one of several federal TRIO programs aimed at expanding educational access for historically underserved students.
