The A+ Program provides scholarship funds to eligible graduates of A+ designated high schools who attend a participating public community college, vocational school or technical school. There are also a few four-year universities in Missouri that offer some scholarship money for students who complete the A+ Program

But, the scholarship funds do not come without effort. There are grade and attendance requirements to qualify.

“A lot of people… think they need all As. It’s a 2.5 average, which is actually a C average. The biggest issue students run into is attendance. Maintaining that 95% attendance, meaning not missing more than 8 days a school year [is required],” college and career counselor Amy Green said.

A+ requirements include: be a U.S. citizen, graduate with an overall grade point average of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale, have at least a 95% overall attendance record, maintain a record of good citizenship, avoid the unlawful use of drugs or alcohol, achieve a score of proficient or advanced on the Algebra 1 End of Course Exams and a signed A+ program Participation Agreement.

“The reason I picked the A+ program is because I feel like it’s really good to have alternative options, and I feel like it gives off a good opportunity for those who may not be sure on what they want to do. Also, they offer a lot of scholarships at multiple different colleges for the A+ program and it’s really beneficial,” senior Danny Wilson said.  

To earn A+ status, participants must perform at least 50 hours of unpaid tutoring or mentoring in the Wentzville district with a Wentzville employee; 25% may include job shadowing. The student must also attend an A+ Tutor Training before earning A+ hours, a feature currently offered through video training.

“I think it’s a really good opportunity,” senior Abby Westhoff said.   

A+ program student manuals can be found on the A+ Web Page for each high school, with hard copies available in the guidance office and the college and career planning center.