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Project Beacon is an in-house name for our Student Support Services (SSS) program here at Palau Community College. The Goal of SSS-Project Beacon is to increase the college retention and graduation rates of program participants, and facilitate the process of transition from PCC to a four-year college or university. Program counselors and instructors provide assistance and activities that are geared at engaging and motivating students toward successful completion of college.

The SSS Program began at PCC in 1984 with a Director, a counselor and an English Instructor. Over the years, the program has expanded in terms of services it provides, and now includes a Career Counselor, and Instructors for Math and Science, Cultural Exposure Activities, as well as SSS Grant Aid for Students. The English component has also expanded from tutoring, to include a reading/writing laboratory. Additionally, Computer assisted instructions, and Supplemental Instruction has been added to the tutoring component of the Program for English, Math, and Science. The program is currently funded to serve 180 participants, and so students are encouraged to apply early.

Eligibility Requirements

* Citizen or national of the United States or meets the residency    requirements for Federal student financial Assistance.    (Micronesians qualify)
* Enrolled at PCC or accepted for enrollment in the next    academic semester
* Demonstrated need for academic support
* Economically disadvantaged (low-income)
* "First generation" college student (parents do not hold a    bachelor degree)
* Individual with disability

Participants Responsibilities

* Access Project Beacon Skill Lab for help in English, Math, Science and other courses; Utilize the    Reading/Writing Lab and computers for class related work
* Meet with Program Counselor and/or Career Counselor on a regular basis for the purpose of ensuring    academic progress, personal well being, and career exploration. For sophomore participants, regular    meetings with the Career Counselor for advice and assistance with transferring to a four-year college    or university.
* Participate in program activities such as cultural trips, job site visits,    study marathons, and information workshops among others.
* Maintain good academic standing

Services Include

Tutoring: Instructors and peer tutors provide help in English, Math & Science as well as other courses.

Assisted Labs: Access to computers, internet and lab for class related work.

Study Skills & Information Workshops: Workshops by counselors on subject matter that benefit students in succeeding academically and continuing on to a 4 year institution.

Cultural Exposures: Trips during each semester that will take students to see and participate in different cultural sites/events around Palau.

Personal Counseling: Counseling regarding personal issues and concerns to ensure personal well-being.

Academic Counseling: Advising and counseling to ensure academic progress.

Financial Aid Counseling: Assistance and help regarding financial aid application, reinstatement of eligibility, etc.

Career Counseling: Advising and assistance in relation to career exploration.

Transfer Counseling: Assistance in applying to a 4-year college or university.

Reading/Writing Lab: Supplemental reading & writing assistance for English classes.

SSS Grant Aid: Monetary assistance awarded to help with educational costs. Awards are dependent upon financial need.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Vernice Rechebei
Project Director
SSS-Project Beacon
Palau Community College
P.O. Box 9, Koror, PW 96940
Phone: (680) 488-3073 * Lab: (680) 488-5654 * Fax: (680) 488-4068
Email: vrechebei@yahoo.com