A Remarkable Achievement: RWS Fall Enrollment Surges to New Heights

The Roosevelt Warms Springs (RWS) campus is buzzing with excitement as the fall semester begins! On August 5, RWS welcomed over 90 new students who are embarking on their educational journeys. During the fall enrollment process, RWS received over 300 applications, and each was thoroughly reviewed by staff members who comprise the application panel. This thorough vetting process enabled trained staff to evaluate applicants' independent living skills, psychological evaluations, and academic abilities.

"We had several pathways that filled up very quickly, reaching max capacity before we even shut down the application portal, " says Assistant Director of Academics and Admissions, Elizabeth "Niki" Watts. RWS approved 115 applications for the fall semester and pre-approved 15 students from the previous cycle for the spring semester. "We prioritized optimal class sized and favorable student-to-teacher ratios to ensure the best outcomes for our students," Watts explained.

This fall, students have much to look forward to, including informative industry tours. To give students a firsthand look at work environments, RWS has organized visits to Walmart Distribution Centers, Callaway Gardens, retail stores and car dealerships. These tours, brimming with hands-on experience, will provide students with a real taste of opportunities within their specific pathways. Additionally, RWS has recently partnered with construction company C.W. Matthews to offer heavy equipment operation students a chance to visit construction sites to see how their skills can used in the field.

"We're just getting started," says RWS Residential Director Chip Medders. "With our increased capacity, we expect to enroll even more students. Our outreach staff members have visited schools throughout the region to make principals, special ed teachers, and counselors aware of course offerings here at Roosevelt Warm Springs." "As a result, we believe our graduation numbers will double in the next two years."