During a recent government meeting, officials highlighted the success of the Mitchell Promise program, which has significantly increased student enrollment at Pikes Peak State College. Initially launched with limited funding at a single school, the program has expanded rapidly, growing from 24 students in its first year to 185 students district-wide, marking a remarkable 67% increase in enrollment.

Valerie, a key figure in the initiative, credited the support from the Dakota Foundation and the Brunies for enabling this expansion. She emphasized the program's impact on students, stating, \"We believe in you,\" which has fostered a sense of agency among participants.

Krista Wallace, the coordinator of promise programs at Pikes Peak State College, shared insights into the program's effectiveness. She introduced her team and discussed the positive outcomes for students, including the success story of Alyssa Fresquez, the first graduate of the program. Alyssa completed a year of concurrent enrollment at Pikes Peak before transferring to the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS), where she received a full scholarship for her studies in criminal justice.

The meeting underscored the collaborative efforts between educational institutions and community foundations to support student success and enhance educational opportunities in the district.