The Ayers Campus Talent Search Program (ACTS) Program is 100% federally funded through the U.S. Department of Education. The goal of ACTS is to increase the number of students who graduate high school, enroll in postsecondary education and graduate from postsecondary education.
What are the benefits of Ayers Campus Talent Search?
ACTS provides a number of services to program participants, including:
- Academic, financial, career or personal counseling
- Career exploration and aptitude assessment
- Tutorial services
- Information on post-secondary education
- Exposure to college campuses and cultural activities
- Information on student financial assistance
- Assistance in completing college admissions and financial aid applications
- Assistance in preparing for college entrance exams
- Mentoring programs
- Workshops for the families of the participants
Who qualifies for Ayers Campus Talent Search?
ACTS identifies and assists eligible students who have the potential to succeed in higher education. Schools serviced by ACTS include:
- Anniston Middle School
- C.E. Hanna (6th grade)
- Oxford Middle School
- Piedmont Middle School
- Alexandria High School
- Anniston High School
- Cleburne County High School
- Ohatchee High School
- Oxford High School
- Piedmont High School
- Pleasant Valley High School
- Saks High School
- Weaver High School
- Wellborn High School
- White Plains High School
What is the application process for Ayers Campus Talent Search?
Students interested in applying for ACTS may do so by submitting an online application. Please note that both the Student and Parent sections must be completed in order for the application to be processed. Students and families selected for participation will be notified by program staff.
Students in grades 6-12 who meet the following criteria:
· Potential first-generation college student (neither parent has earned a bachelor’s degree) and/or
· Parent/guardian income consistent with federal guidelines and/or
· Other as recommended by principal or counselor when slots are available
· Enrolled at one of the ACTS target schools
NOTE: All ACTS participants must be U.S. citizens or verifiable permanent residents of the U.S.
· Must have and maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher
· Must plan to enroll in post-secondary education after graduation
· Must exhibit good behavior
· Must have signed recommendation form from principal or counselor
There is no cost to participate in ACTS, including field trips and workshop materials provided.
No. The ACTS program is not recruiting for GSCC or for any specific post-secondary institution.
Meetings take place at the schools during the school day. Each school has set meeting times and designated rooms/areas for participants to meet with their outreach advisor.
No. ACTS students are self-motivated and self-reliant. We only provide resources, information and assistance needed to search for and secure scholarships on their own.
No. Students remain in the program each year until high school graduation. A Participant Update Form is requested each year for new addresses, phone numbers, email, social media or other needed information.
Notify your new guidance counselor that you were a participant in another school. You may continue to receive services in your new school.
No. This program targets students who possess academic talent and are believed capable of pursuing rigorous curriculum.
Yes. The ACTS program offers tutoring to participants through collaboration with their school. See your outreach advisor for more information.
ACTS Office
Ayers Campus Administration Building
Room 101
1801 Coleman Road
Anniston, AL 36201
Phone: 256-832-1238
Email: ayersets@gadsdenstate.edu
Hours: 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 7:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Friday
Contact:
Anika McGee, director
256-832-1204 | amcgee@gadsdenstate.edu