The program is an e-learning college and career readiness program that assists ninth- through 12th-grade students, school counselors, community organizations and mentors in understanding the process of applying to a college, university or other post-secondary education and the ins and outs of being accepted to an institution and financial aid.

“OnTrack was brought to us by an alum of the school, and I wanted to implement the program to work in conjunction with what we already offer our students in terms of their post-secondary planning,” said Michael Knowles, TCA president. “I am thrilled with the program and what it offers so far and plan on using it with more students during the 2020-2021 school year.”

In Trenton Catholic Academy, students use pre-recorded grade-specific video modules filmed by college students and young adults in conjunction with guidance from the Student Services Office to, as OnTrack puts it, take the guesswork out of college planning. The modules are able to be completed out of sequence, and students are asked questions following the completion of the lesson.

“Students are able to select the modules that interest them, based on where they are in the college application process. As they continue with the modules, they become more intense and more in-depth,” said Upper School teacher Nancy Preston, who has been moderating a junior class since it was implemented in January.

“It has been a real eye-opener for some of the students,” she acknowledged.

Student Francini Cruz agreed. Cruz has been participating in a module on the different types of college admissions, including early decision, early admission and regular admission.

“It’s really informative,” she said. “The modules also help you decide what you’re looking for in a college, things like college atmosphere, the grades you need, the benefits of private versus public college.”

In addition to those questions, student Gianna Gonzalez said the program is helping her think about how to adjust to life in college, too.

Once a student completes all of the modules, they can apply for a scholarship through OnTrack and the Uncommon Individual Foundation. Scholarship opportunities and ways to avoid debt is something Stanley Ihem, who has completed a majority of the modules, can attest to.

“This module is helping students stay out of debt while in college and after graduation,” Ihem shared. “The videos help you not only prepare for college but also for the world after.”