Historical Information

The College Reach-Out Program (CROP) was created in 1983 as a state-wide State of Florida Department of Education Office of Equity & Access initiative designed to increase the number of low–income; educationally challenged students in grades 6 through 12 pursue higher education. Students must meet academic and economic criteria to enroll in the College Reach-Out Program. CROP has served more than 10,000 students statewide and hopes to serve thousands for years to come.

CROP goals are to:

• Motivate students to pursue a post-secondary education
• Develop students learning and coping skills
• Strengthen students and parents understanding of the benefits of post secondary education
• Foster academic, personal and career development through supplemental instruction

At Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) CROP is sponsored by the Department of Youth Outreach Programs, under the leadership of Reinaldo Cortes, Director. Students are identified and selected as a result of partnerships established with targeted schools in the Lake and Sumter area.

Through activities such as:

• Monthly academic enrichment sessions
• Test preparation for FCAT, SAT, ACT and College Entrance test
• Annual college tours
• Educational and social trips and activities
• College Readiness program
• Bridges to Success
• Summer Career Exploration Modules Camp (Residential experience at college campus)
• And much more…

We encourage students to:

• Plan for their educational future
• Participate in special activities
• Prepare for the next level
• Practice for high stakes exams

For more information contact:

Tom Manning, Program Manager
Lake-Sumter State College
College Reach-Out Program
9501 US Hwy 441
Leesburg, FL 34788
Phone: 352-365-3588