KIMBALL -- A unique opportunity has arisen for Kimball sophomore students to receive mentorship in preparation for college and career possibilities.

A former Kimball graduate Nicholas Thomas-Lewis and a fellow Rhodes Scholar Coleman Warren have co-founded the Compass Scholar Program, which is designed to provide students in rural communities with experiences that foster growth and future success.

This program is designed for students who: 

  • Are curious about college or career options but don’t know where to start 
  • Looking for guidance and mentorship from college students and professionals 
  • Excited to develop leadership skills and grow as a person 

Students who enter the program will benefit by gaining new skills, networking with leaders, and exploring career possibilities.

Jr./Sr. High School Principal Danielle Reader said the students who are accepted into the program will be paired with a mentor based on common interests. The mentorship will consist of goal setting, tutoring, and guidance through college options, applications and career paths.

“The significance of the program is the ability for some of our kids to get some extra support through mentorship and improve the likelihood of success after high school,” Reader said.

The program will also pay for college admission applications, additional ACT testing, and other expenses that may come along the way.

The Compass group will choose 3-6 students based on teacher recommendations and the needs expressed by the students in their applications.

They are looking at candidates who may face obstacles like limited resources, being a first-generation college student, or needing more guidance.

“They are trying to find those kids who have the potential, the interest and the motivation, but just don’t really know where to begin,” Reader said.

The program will begin at the start of the second semester in 2025, and the students will continue the mentorship through their graduation year.

Reader said the Compass group hopes to gain additional mentors as the program grows to allow new sophomores to be chosen each year.

Put in your application at: https://bitly.cx/CompassApp. The deadline to apply is Nov. 22

For more information, contact Kimball Jr./Sr. High Principal Danielle Reader.