College Reach-Out Program
About CROP
"Success Is a Journey, Not a Destination" - Arthur Ashe
The College Reach-Out Program (CROP) was established in 1983 by the Florida Legislature to motivate and prepare students in grades 6–12 from low-income educationally disadvantaged backgrounds towards pursuing and successfully completing postsecondary education.
Participants are students who otherwise would be unlikely to seek admission to a postsecondary institution without additional support and recruitment efforts. CROP supports local programs throughout Florida led by postsecondary educational institutions. Program funds are appropriated by the Legislature to the FDOE and allocated through a competitive process. According to Section 1007.34(3), Florida Statutes (F.S.), to participate in CROP, a postsecondary institution may submit a proposal to the FDOE. Section 1007.34(9), F.S., states that members of the CROP Advisory Council, appointed by the Commissioner of Education, will review the proposals, and recommend to the State Board of Education an order of priority for funding the proposals.
HISTORY OF COLLEGE REACH-OUT PROGRAM AT THE UNVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA
The College Reach Out Program (CROP) at the University of South Florida stands out as an integral part of the Transitions and Academic Growth initiative within the Office of Undergraduate Studies. By focusing on middle and high school students, as well as community college students preparing for transition to USF or within the State 12 Univeristy System, CROP uniquely addresses the needs of those from low-income and educationally underserved backgrounds, equipping them with the tools and resources for postsecondary success.
Since 1983, CROP at USF has been committed to breaking down barriers to college access for underrepresented students. Through immersive academic and enrichment programs, such as the Saturday Academic Enrichment, Summer Academic Enrichment, and Summer Residential Programs, students receive rigorous academic support, high school and college counseling, career guidance, and leadership development. These initiatives also introduce students to college life through hands-on experiences that build both academic and personal confidence.
Additionally, USF’s CROP program recognizes the critical role of family support in a student's educational journey. With dedicated workshops and resources, USF CROP empowers parents to engage actively, offering guidance on college processes and even on their own educational pursuits. By fostering a robust community of support for both students and families, USF CROP creates pathways to success that resonate well beyond the classroom.
COLLEGE REACH OUT PROGRAM GOALS
The College Reach Out Program Goals:
- Motivate students to pursue a postsecondary education.
- Enhance students’ basic learning skills and performance.
- Strengthen students’ and parents’ understanding of the benefits of postsecondary education.
- Foster academic, personal, and career development through supplemental instruction.
WHO SHOULD APPLY
Students in grades 6 through 12 who are low-income or educationally disadvantaged are eligible to apply. The program targets students from diverse cultural backgrounds who might not seek admission to postsecondary institutions without additional support.
APPLICATION PROCESS
To apply for CROP, eligible students must:
- Complete the online application form available in the APPLY section.
- Submit required documents, including proof of income and academic records.
- Follow the submission guidelines provided.
- Attending Parent and Student orientation session (TBA).
REVIEW THE CROP MASTER SCHEDULE 2024-2025
The College Reach-Out Program is accepting applications for grades 6th - 11th grade. If you are in either one of these grades, please complete the interest form. If you wish to be put on the waiting list for future year, please email ugs-crop@usf.edu and we will contact you via email to let you know that the portal is now open to apply.
INTERESTED IN JOINING THE COLLEGE REACH OUT PROGRAM AT USF! PLEASE SCAN THE QR CODE OR CLICK ON THIS LINK TO GO DIRECTLY TO THE ONLINE APPLICATION FORM.
PLEASE CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR BUS TRANSPORTATION
