For immediate release - Jan. 12, 2006

(DALLAS) – The keys to success open doors of opportunity through education.

Opening the door to success means using a key to unlock the future by getting an education. A free, one-day event for Dallas-area high school juniors and seniors, as well as their parents, will help students obtain that key during Las Llaves del Exito on Saturday, Feb. 11, at Richland College in Dallas.

Las Llaves is sponsored by the Dallas County Community College District, the Dallas Independent School District and the Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with area colleges, universities and nonprofit groups. Students and their families are invited to attend from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Richland College is located at 12800 Abrams Road.   

The program, which will be held in Fannin Hall, includes hands-on workshops during which students will learn how to fill out applications for admission to DCCCD and area colleges and universities, as well as paperwork for financial aid and scholarships. Bilingual volunteers will be available to assist parents of seniors with their 2006 federal income tax return, which will enable them also to complete their students’ FAFSA form (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Note: Parents who would like help with their income tax and the FAFSA form should bring their W-2 forms to the workshop that day.

College representatives, admissions specialists and financial aid advisors will talk to families about the steps they need to take to be considered for admission and financial aid. Other sessions also will include: “How to Write an Essay” (information that students can use to help them with their scholarship applications); “How to Pay for College”; SAT/ACT preparation; and more. Lunch will be provided. 

Las Llaves was started several years ago by a committee of community members who wanted to encourage high school students to graduate and continue their education. For more information, call DISD at (972) 925-3970 or Perla Molina in the DCCCD office of community development at (214) 860-2691. Assistance in Spanish is available at (214) 860-2432.

Press contact: Ann Hatch, 214-860-2478